The Turkish military vehemently claims of civilian casualties and the use of chemical or biological weapons in Operation Olive Branch in Syria's Afrin, noting that it does not own the prohibited material in its inventory.
The military said in a statement that there have been fabricated news stories released with the goal to cast a shadow to the legitimacy of the operation.
"It is evident that these reports, based on lies and slander are spread by terrorist organizations and their supporters," Daily Sabah cited the statement as saying.
The military highlighted that the operation solely focuses on terrorists and their shelters, hideouts, weapons and vehicles, and that special attention is paid to prevent civilian casualties.
Furthermore, the statement noted the military also takes extra caution and does not target religious or cultural structures, historical artifacts, archaeological sites or public facilities, vehemently dismissing recent claims that Turkish airstrikes damaged the ancient site of Ain Dara near Afrin.
With regards to the use of prohibited chemical and biological weapons, the military said that the Turkish Air Forces do not own napalm or any ammunition prohibited by international law and agreements.
