Security concern

U.S. Authorizes Ordered Departure of DoD Dependents from Turkey

The U.S. government has authorized the ordered departure of Defense Department dependents from Turkey, including those at Incirlik Air Base, according to Pentagon spokesman Peter Cook.

The move announced today comes out of an "abundance of caution" to security concerns in the region, and not in response to a specific threat, Cook told reporters.

Defense Secretary Ash Carter, in coordination with Secretary of State John Kerry, authorized the ordered departure for all DoD dependents in Izmir, Adana and Mugla provinces, Cook said.

This step does not signify a permanent decision to end accompanied tours at these facilities, according to a news release from U.S. European command.

"This decision allows for the deliberate, safe return of family members from these areas due to continued security concerns in the region," he said.

The decision impacts 670 out of the 770 Defense Department dependents in Turkey, Cook said, adding that it is his understanding that "this will move quickly."