Turkey is reportedly considering an expansion of its air operations in northern Syria targeting the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) and its local affiliate, the People's Self-Defense Forces (SDF).
Turkish government sources have indicated plans to increase the areas of responsibility for its military bases in both Syria and Iraq. The operations in Syria are expected to utilize attack drones, and the Turkish Air Force may conduct actions in Northern Iraq when necessary.
Following a terrorist attack on the Interior Ministry headquarters in Ankara on October 1, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated that all PKK infrastructure and facilities in Syria and Iraq are now legitimate targets for Ankara.
These air operations in northern Syria are anticipated to become more routine, according to the Turkish newspaper Hürriyet. Turkey has finalized plans for operations in neighboring territories, with a primary goal being to clear the borders with Syria and Iraq of terrorist elements.
Specific areas, such as Zap in Northern Iraq and Tell Rifaat in northern Syria, are targeted. Since October 1, the Turkish army has reportedly destroyed 58 PKK sites in Syria and Iraq, resulting in the elimination of 37 militants. However, these numbers may increase following an air raid in northern Syria on October 5.
Turkey views the PKK and its affiliates as terrorist organizations and significant national security threats.
The Turkish military conducts periodic operations against Kurdish militants in northern Syria and Iraq while maintaining a substantial presence along the border.
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Based on materials from TASS