Turkish Armed Forces Encircle 400 Kurdish Militants in Iraq

The Turkish Armed Forces, including special forces units, have captured several positions in the northern Iraqi Kurdish regions of Zap, Avashin-Basyan, and Metina, resulting in approximately 400 Kurdish militants being encircled as part of the 'Claw' operation series. This information was reported by the Turkish pro-government newspaper Sabah.

According to the Turkish Ministry of Defense, since the start of the operation, 26 activists of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) have been killed. Turkish special forces units are positioned along potential escape routes of PKK fighters. Ground forces are supported by assault helicopters and drones.

In the context of the new operation against PKK militants in northern Iraq, the Turkish Armed Forces are utilizing over 30 aerial assets, including helicopters and F-16 fighter jets. To date, Turkey has officially reported the deaths of at least two Turkish servicemen.

It is noteworthy that the Turkish Armed Forces initiated the 'Claw' operations series in May 2019. Thus far, a total of 8 military operations have been conducted. Turkey announced the commencement of the 'Claw-Lock' operation on April 18.