Türkiye hits 20 targets in northern Iraq, 'neutralizes' many terrorists

By Serdar Dincel

ISTANBUL (AA) - Türkiye on Monday hit 20 targets in Zap, Hakurk, Gara, Qandil, Asos, Metina regions of northern Iraq where some ringleaders of the PKK terrorist organization were based, the National Defense Ministry said.

Stressing that this came in an airstrike in line with "our right to self-defense arising from Article 51 of the UN Charter," the ministry wrote on X: "During the air operation, 20 targets consisting of caves, bunkers, shelters, warehouses and facilities used by the terrorist organization were destroyed."

It added that a large number of terrorists were killed as a result of the operation.

Emphasizing that "all measures have been taken" to avoid damaging "innocent civilians, friendly elements, historical and cultural assets, and the environment," during the operation, the ministry highlighted that Türkiye will continue, "with perseverance and determination," its fight against terrorism "till the last terrorist is neutralized."

In its 40-year terror campaign against Türkiye, the PKK – listed as a terrorist organization by Türkiye, the US and European Union – has been responsible for the deaths of more than 40,000 people, including women, children, infants and the elderly.

The terrorist PKK is known for using northern Iraq, near the Turkish border, as a hideout to plot terror attacks in Türkiye.