34 PKK targets destroyed in Türkiye’s latest military operation in northern Iraq

Türkiye’s National Defense Ministry announced early Friday that its air force conducted a successful operation targeting the PKK in northern Iraq, destroying 34 terrorist targets. The operation was carried out in response to a recent attack that left five people dead and 22 injured at Turkish Aerospace Industries in Ankara.

In a statement released shortly after the airstrikes, which took place around 11:30 p.m. local time on Thursday, the ministry detailed that the operation focused on locations in the Hakurk, Gara, Qandil, and Sinjar regions. These areas are known strongholds for the PKK, which is classified as a terrorist organization by Türkiye, the United States, and the European Union.

The ministry emphasized that the strikes were executed under Türkiye’s right to self-defense, as outlined in Article 51 of the UN Charter. The aim was to neutralize PKK/KCK and other terrorist elements, prevent further attacks on civilians and security forces, and secure Türkiye’s borders.

“During the operation, 34 targets including caves, shelters, hideouts, depots, and facilities used by the Separatist Terrorist Organization (BTO) were destroyed,” the statement read. It was also reported that some high-ranking terrorists may have been present at these sites.

The operation marked a significant use of domestically produced munitions, highlighting Türkiye’s efforts to enhance its military capabilities. The ministry reiterated its commitment to combating terrorism, stating, “As always, the Turkish Armed Forces—rooted in the noble heart of our nation—remain resolute and determined in the fight against terrorism, continuing operations until not a single terrorist remains, ensuring the survival and security of our country and people.”

This military action comes on the heels of a terrorist attack on Wednesday, when two assailants targeted the headquarters of Turkish Aerospace Industries in Ankara’s Kahramankazan district. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed that the attackers were “neutralized,” with five fatalities and 22 injuries reported in the incident.

The PKK has waged a nearly 40-year-long campaign against Türkiye, resulting in the deaths of over 40,000 individuals, including women, children, and infants. Turkish authorities use the term “neutralize” to indicate that terrorists have either surrendered, been killed, or captured during operations.