Turkish forces neutralize 20 PKK members in retaliatory strikes following soldiers' deaths

The National Defense Ministry made the statement on Saturday, detailing the counteroffensive against terrorist targets in the Operation Claw-Lock region.

“Following the attack in the Operation Claw-Lock region, where our heroic comrades were martyred, terrorist targets in the north of Iraq and Syria were effectively hit by our ground fire support vehicles as well as air operations,” the ministry said.

The term "neutralize" is employed by Turkish authorities to signify that the terrorists have either surrendered, been killed, or captured.

“According to initial estimates, the number of terrorists neutralized in northern Iraq has increased to 20,” the statement added.

This retaliation underscores Turkey's commitment to addressing security threats and safeguarding its forces in the designated regions.

The deadly PKK attack on Friday claimed the lives of nine Turkish soldiers. PKK militants frequently use northern Iraq as a base to plan cross-border attacks into Türkiye. Additionally, the group has a Syrian branch known as the YPG (People's Protection Units). The ongoing efforts to counteract these threats highlight Türkiye’s resolve in maintaining regional security. (ILKHA)