Türkiye reports progress in counterterrorism operations in Iraq, Syria
A Turkish Air Force F-16 fighter jet. (AFP Photo)
The Ministry of National Defense (MoD) announced significant progress in its counterterrorism efforts in Iraq and Syria, reporting that 3,226 terrorists have been neutralized since January 1, 2024, including 62 in the past week.
In a statement, the ministry reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring stability in the region and facilitating the honorable return of refugees.
Brigadier General Akturk emphasized, “We will continue to support lasting security more strongly than before. In cooperation with the new administration, we aim to strengthen Syria’s defense and security capacities and combat terrorism. As always, PKK/PYD/YPG/SDG and Daesh elements threatening our borders and Syria’s territorial integrity remain legitimate targets.”
Commemorating Operation Olive Branch anniversary
The ministry marked the seventh anniversary of the Operation Olive Branch, which began on January 20, 2018, with a massive air campaign involving 72 fighter jets. The operation disrupted the establishment of a “terror corridor” along Türkiye’s southern borders.
Akturk honored the sacrifices of fallen soldiers, stating, “On this anniversary, we remember with gratitude our martyrs who fought for the safety of our borders and the region. We extend our respect and appreciation to our heroic veterans.”
Ceasefire in Gaza welcomed
Addressing the situation in Gaza, Brigadier General Akturk highlighted concerns over Israel’s actions in the region. “We welcome the ceasefire agreement ending Israel’s attacks on Gaza, which caused immense humanitarian suffering. However, this ceasefire does not resolve the core issues. We urge for substantial efforts to establish an independent, sovereign Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, based on the 1967 borders.”
Discussions with Syria’s new leadership
Defense ministry sources revealed details about discussions with Syria’s new administration during its recent visit to Ankara.
“This initial meeting was significant. We expressed our determination to support Syria’s new leadership in enhancing its defense capacity and combating terrorism. Technical assessments will follow as Syria identifies its needs and establishes functioning state institutions.”
Yesterday’s meeting is important and valuable as it was the first contact. We expressed our will to support the new Syrian administration in the coming period and they expressed their satisfaction with this.
We will provide all the support we can both in the development of their defense capacities and in the fight against terrorism. However, technical work needs to be done. As Mr. Minister also stated, there is a new administration in Syria. After the new administration makes the state organs functional, they will determine their needs.
We will put forward what we can do according to these needs and work on the road map to be determined jointly.
Rear Admiral Zeki Akturk, MoD Press and Public Relations Advisor and Ministry Spokesperson
Concerns over Tishrin Dam
The ministry also addressed concerns regarding the Tishrin Dam area, where PKK/YPG forces have reportedly used civilians as human shields during clashes with the Syrian National Army (SNA).
Sources stated, “The terrorist organization is forcing civilians into conflict zones to mislead the international community. Their use of humanitarian infrastructure and innocent civilians as bargaining tools will not be tolerated.”
Situation at Tishrin Dam in Manbij, Syria
Akturk addressed concerns about the PKK/YPG using civilians as human shields near Tishrin Dam.
He condemned the group’s tactics, emphasizing that Türkiye would not allow the exploitation of civilians or vital infrastructure for propaganda purposes.
We are closely following the ongoing clashes between the Syrian National Army (SNA) and the terrorist organization PKK/YPG in the Tishrin region.
The terrorist organization is trying to deceive the international public opinion with disinformation that civilians are being attacked by forcibly bringing civilians to the area where the clashes are taking place.
The terrorist organization will not be allowed to negotiate humanitarian infrastructure facilities, the prevention of a possible disaster and innocent civilians.
Rear Admiral Zeki Akturk, MoD Press and Public Relations Advisor and Ministry Spokesperson
“TAF is determined to prevent terrorist organizations such as PKK/YPG/SDF from using strategic infrastructure to disrupt regional stability,” Turkish Defense Ministry sources stated in response to questions about recent developments in Syria.
Turkish Defense Ministry recently condemned the use of civilians as human shields by PKK/YPG/SDF terrorists around the Tishrin Dam. “This act of employing civilians, including civilian-clothed militant groups, is a blatant violation of human rights and an affront to international law,” the ministry’s sources emphasized.
They also criticized the groups for prioritizing their interests over the safety of civilians, noting, “Such actions exemplify the moral collapse and desperation of terrorist organizations.”
