Turkish jets neutralize 2 terrorists in northern Iraq

ANKARA

Turkish fighter jets "neutralized" two PKK terrorists in airstrikes on terrorist elements in northern Iraq, according to an official statement Saturday.

The airstrikes in Gara region were conducted in coordination with Turkey’s ongoing counter-terror operations in northern Iraq, said a National Defense Ministry statement.

Turkish authorities often use the word "neutralized" to imply the terrorists in question surrendered or were killed or captured.

The counter-terrorism operations were supported by the Turkish Armed Forces, police, gendarmerie, and the National Intelligence service (MIT).

PKK terrorists often use northern Iraq to plan cross-border terrorist attacks in Turkey.

On May 27, Turkey launched Operation Claw against the PKK in the Hakurk region of northern Iraq.

In mid-July and late August, Turkey also launched Operation Claw-2 and Operation Claw-3 in northern Iraq with the same purpose.

Over 400 PKK terrorists have been “neutralized” in northern Iraq over the past four months, according to the ministry.

In its more than 30-year terror campaign against Turkey, the PKK -- listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the U.S., and the EU -- has been responsible for the deaths of 40,000 people, including women, children, and infants.