ANKARA: Recent air strikes by the Turkish military aimed at neutralizing terrorists have successfully targeted multiple hideouts in northern Iraq.
The strikes, carried out earlier this week, resulted in the destruction of 31 targets and the neutralization of senior members of the terror group, according to an official press release from the Turkish National Defence Ministry.
The operations were conducted to counter the PKK/KCK and other terrorist elements, thwarting potential attacks against both the people and security forces of Türkiye. The specific air operations were focused on terrorist targets in the Gara region of northern Iraq from September 13 to 15.
The targets destroyed during the strikes included caves, shelters, and caches utilized by terrorists, some of which were confirmed to be housing senior members of the terrorist organization. The ministry emphasized that domestically produced ammunition was utilized to its maximum extent during these operations, resulting in a significant number of terrorists being neutralized.
The Turkish National Defence Ministry underlined that these strikes were executed in alignment with Türkiye’s right to self-defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter. Moreover, the ministry assured that every precaution was taken to minimize harm to innocent civilians, friendly elements, historical and cultural assets, as well as the environment during the operations.
The PKK, listed as a terrorist organization by Türkiye, the US, and the EU, has engaged in a brutal terror campaign against Türkiye for over 35 years, causing the deaths of more than 40,000 people, including women, children, and infants. The group often seeks refuge across the border in northern Iraq to plan and carry out attacks.
Highlighting Türkiye’s commitment to countering terrorism, the National Defence Ministry reported neutralizing over 1,180 YPG/PKK terrorists since the beginning of the year, including those hiding across the border in northern Iraq and northern Syria. The term “neutralize” is used by Turkish authorities to signify that the terrorists in question either surrendered, were captured, or were eliminated.
In Syria, Türkiye remains vigilant in taking all necessary measures to ensure security and stability in areas impacted by its cross-border anti-terror operations. Terrorist attacks are met with swift responses, reflecting Türkiye’s dedication to maintaining peace in the region.
Since January, the YPG/PKK terrorist group has carried out 165 harassment incidents and attacks in areas where Türkiye conducts counterterrorism operations. Turkish soldiers have responded promptly, neutralizing 864 terrorists and thwarting these attacks.
