Turkish defense ministry highlights F-16 deal progress, anti-terror gains in Iraq, Syria
Rear Admiral Zeki Akturk, Press and Public Relations Advisor of the Ministry of National Defense (MSB), made statements at a press briefing held at the Ministry. (AA Photo)
Turkish Defense Ministry spokesperson Rear Admiral Zeki Akturk announced Thursday that Turkish Armed Forces operations in northern Iraq and Syria have neutralized 38 terrorists over the past week, bringing the total to 2,457 since Jan. 1.
Speaking at a press briefing, Akturk detailed Türkiye’s ongoing security efforts, border protection, and international engagements. Regarding Türkiye’s F-16 procurement from the United States, Akturk stated that contracts have been signed and that the process remains on a positive trajectory, affirming that the Türkiye-U.S. alliance is based on shared interests and values as NATO allies.
Continuous counterterrorism operations in northern Iraq, Syria
Akturk emphasized that Turkish forces remain committed to counterterrorism efforts, describing them as “continuous and comprehensive.”
In Iraq’s Claw-Lock Operation zone, Turkish forces discovered numerous weapons, ammunition, improvised explosive devices (IED), and organizational materials belonging to the terrorist organization in their hideouts.
Additionally, two PKK/YPG terrorist members surrendered to the Turkish forces at a border post in Cizre and Igdir.
Akturk affirmed Türkiye’s dedication to national security, pledging that operations will persist “until the last terrorist is eliminated.”
Border security efforts prevent illegal crossings
Akturk reported that Turkish border security intercepted 188 individuals attempting illegal crossings the past week, including four terrorist suspects.
Since the beginning of the year, a total of 12,461 individuals have been detained for illegal border crossing attempts, while 86,132 were prevented from crossing. He highlighted that the Turkish Armed Forces (TSK) continue to uphold Türkiye’s security through ongoing missions and collaborations with allies.
International engagements and joint exercises
The Turkish Armed Forces have completed several joint military exercises, including Türkiye-North Cyprus SAT/Special Operations in the Mediterranean and air policing with Torrejon Archer.
Akturk also confirmed continued exercises with NATO allies, including the upcoming Bold Machina and Ramstein Alternate exercises scheduled for mid-November.
He announced recent visits of Turkish naval vessels to ports in Croatia, Albania, and Greece, emphasizing Türkiye’s commitment to regional security and cooperation.
US troop withdrawal from Syria questioned
When asked about potential U.S. troop withdrawal from Syria following recent U.S. elections, ministry sources expressed skepticism, noting that past withdrawal announcements have not materialized.
Türkiye continues to monitor all regional developments and seeks to end support for groups it considers terrorist organizations, including PKK/YPG/SDG.
Türkiye-Greece confidence-building talks held in Istanbul
Akturk highlighted recent confidence-building talks between Turkish and Greek officials in Istanbul, which focused on implementing agreed activities for 2024 and planning for 2025. The next meeting is set to be hosted by Greece.
Turkish ministry sources also responded to reports on France supplying military aid to southern Cyprus, asserting Türkiye’s commitment to protecting the security and rights of Turkish Cypriots.
