Turkey Launches Airstrikes Against PKK in Iraq, Syria

The Turkish Ministry of Defense has confirmed a series of airstrikes targeting the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) in Iraq and Syria, resulting in the destruction of 32 terrorist targets. This military action follows a deadly attack near Ankara that killed five people, which Turkish authorities attribute to the PKK, prompting heightened security measures. Turkish officials have stated that the operations are a response to ongoing threats against the Turkish populace and security forces, emphasizing their commitment to combat terrorism 'until there is not a single terrorist left.' The attacks coincided with a significant event, as armed assailants targeted the Turkish Aerospace Industries complex, leading to a hostage situation before the attackers were neutralized. The PKK, recognized as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the U.S., and the EU, has a long history of violent conflict with the Turkish state, resulting in over 40,000 deaths since its inception. In an environment of rising tensions, Turkey's military operations are framed as necessary for national defense and security.