Türkiye's Military Operations Against PKK Militants
On December 25, 2024, the Turkish Ministry of Defense announced a significant military operation that resulted in the killing of 21 militants from the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK). This operation took place in northern Syria and Iraq, with 20 militants neutralized in Syria while they were allegedly preparing to launch attacks in areas controlled by Turkish forces, specifically within the Operations Euphrates Shield and Peace Spring. Additionally, one militant was killed in northern Iraq's Claw-Lock area, where he was reportedly planning assaults against Turkish troops.
Key Target: PKK Leader Eliminated
A notable aspect of this operation was the targeted killing of Firat Serihan, the leader of the PKK, known by his nom de guerre 'Hoger Batman'. Turkish intelligence successfully executed a special operation in the Kara region of northern Iraq, where Serihan was responsible for orchestrating terrorist activities and supplying arms to PKK members. The Turkish Ministry of Defense emphasized that its counter-terrorism efforts will persist vigorously to safeguard national security against threats from both northern Iraq and Syria.
Ongoing Conflict and Historical Context
The PKK has been engaged in an armed insurgency against the Turkish state since 1984, resulting in over 40,000 deaths. The group maintains its primary stronghold in the Qandil Mountains of northern Iraq, from where it conducts attacks within Turkey. In response, Turkish forces, often in collaboration with the Syrian National Army, have launched multiple military operations targeting the PKK, YPG (Kurdish People's Protection Units), and ISIS. These operations include the well-known Euphrates Shield, Olive Branch, and Peace Spring campaigns, alongside ongoing airstrikes and cross-border actions aimed at dismantling PKK infrastructure in mountainous regions.
