Feature story - 24 July, 2006
Greenpeace is gravely concerned and shares horror at the escalating violence and conflict in Lebanon, Israel and Gaza.
Greenpeace is opposed to war and violence in every part of the
world.The path to peace is never a violent one, and the recent
escalation ofthe conflict in the region is deeply saddening. Only
peacefulcooperation and dialogue between different peoples and
nations offerthe chance of lasting peace in this region.
Greenpeace believes that the best contribution to the current
situationis to continue with campaigns in this region on oceans,
energy &disarmament. While nuclear weapons are not a cause of
this conflict,they are one key obstacle to attaining peace in the
region. As such ourcampaign for a peaceful energy revolution and a
nuclear free middleeast are the most positive and productive steps
that can be takentowards greater security and stability in the
region and cooperationbetween states.
Turkey, with 90 nuclear weapons stationed in Incirlik bordering
theMiddle East, can be considered a nuclear state, of strategic
importancein the region. The Turkish government should provide
leadership in bothEurope/NATO and in the Middle East by getting rid
of these weapons andsupport the call for a nuclear-free Middle
East.