Debate starts in Turkey on allowing overflights

(Ankara, Turkey-AP) -- Debate is under way in Turkey's parliament on a proposal that would allow the U-S to fly over the nation to strike Iraq.<br><br>The measure falls short of Washington's initial

Thursday, March 20th 2003, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

(Ankara, Turkey-AP) -- Debate is under way in Turkey's parliament on a proposal that would allow the U-S to fly over the nation to strike Iraq.

The measure falls short of Washington's initial request to station 62-thousand ground troops in Turkey. A vote is expected today.

The U-S could also use Turkish airspace to transport troops into northern Iraq. The proposal would not, however, allow U-S planes to use Turkish air bases or refuel in Turkey.

The Turks have been vocal in opposing U-S action against Iraq, and Turkey's president is protesting the U-S air strike.