US State Department: Military and diplomatic families can leave Incirlik area
Hundreds of military and diplomatic family members near Incirlik air base in southern Turkey will soon be taken out of the country. Their travel expenses will be covered by the US government. The decision comes as Turkey takes a bigger role in the fight against Islamic State militants, joining the airstrike campaign and allowing expanded use of the Incirlik base by the U.S. for fighter jet and drone missions. The decision affects only the families of U.S. troops at Incirlik and diplomats at the consulate in nearby Adana. Families aren't required to leave, but the U.S. government would pay expenses for those who do. Defense Department schools will remain open for those who stay. Pentagon spokesman Peter Cook said the plan could affect up to 900 family members but that it's too early to tell how many may leave. He said it doesn't apply to Ankara, Istanbul or other regions where other military and diplomatic personnel are posted. We're just being abundantly safe here," said Cook, adding that families will be able to leave on commercial flights and will be reimbursed for the costs. The State Department also said that the consulate in Adana will continue its activities as before. This decision was made out of an abundance of caution, following the commencement of military operations out of Incirlik Airbase," said State Department deputy spokesman Mark Toner
