Türkiye announces 2024 counterterrorism success, ‘neutralizing’ 3,038 terrorists

Türkiye has neutralized 3,038 terrorists across northern Iraq and Syria as part of its 2024 counterterrorism operations, the National Defense Ministry announced Saturday. The operations targeted the PKK, its Syrian affiliates the PKK/PYD/YPG, and Daesh, marking a significant escalation in the country’s efforts against these groups.

The ministry disclosed on social media that Turkish forces destroyed 1,330 caves and shelters used by terrorists and seized 2,450 weapons along with more than 910,000 pieces of ammunition. It also stated that 107 terrorists had surrendered during the year.

Türkiye’s armed forces conducted these operations following “unconventional, unpredictable, swift, and continuous” principles, a strategy designed to combat terrorism at its source.

The ministry emphasized the nation’s resolve, saying efforts to completely eradicate terrorism were being carried out with “great determination.”

The term “neutralize” is used by Turkish authorities to denote terrorists who have surrendered, been captured, or killed during operations.

The PKK, which Türkiye, the U.S., and the EU have designated as a terrorist organization, has waged a four-decade campaign against the Turkish state, claiming more than 40,000 lives, including those of women, children, and elderly civilians.

The PKK’s Syrian branch, operating under the names PYD and YPG, has been a focus of Türkiye’s cross-border efforts.

Türkiye’s military operations reflect a broader strategy to eliminate perceived threats to its national security, particularly in volatile regions near its borders. With the year drawing to a close, officials signaled a continuation of these measures in 2025.