ISTANBUL

Turkish security forces neutralized at least 13 PKK terrorists in northern Iraq, the National Defense Ministry said on Friday.

The terrorists were targeted in an operation in the Gara and Hakurk regions, the ministry said on X.

Turkish authorities use the term "neutralize" to imply the terrorists in question surrendered or were killed or captured.

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

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