Turkey has redefined its approach to combating terrorism, particularly targeting the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), which is outlawed by Ankara. According to Defense Minister Yasar Guler, Turkey is now focused on eliminating terrorism at its roots.
"We have restructured our counterterrorism tactics and are pursuing a strategy aimed at eradicating terrorism at its roots. We have shifted away from intermittent operations to conducting continuous ones," stated the minister during an interview with CNN Turk, referring specifically to Turkey's operations against the PKK in Northern Iraq.
Guler revealed plans to eradicate the PKK's presence in neighboring territory, highlighting discussions on joint countermeasures against the terrorist group during Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's recent visit to the neighboring nation on April 22.
"The terrorist organization must vacate the territories it has occupied for years. The Turkish military will take necessary measures to eliminate terrorism," emphasized the minister when questioned about the possibility of Turkey's cross-border operation in the region.
Reports from local media and military analysts suggest that Turkey's operation in Northern Iraq, home to the PKK's primary bases, is imminent following Erdogan's visit. The objective is to establish a security zone spanning 30-40 kilometers wide and ensure control along the entire 378-kilometer border between the two countries.
According to the Hürriyet newspaper, preparations for the operation are well underway, with Turkish military positions being fortified and new ones established. Operational plans, including coordination with Baghdad and Erbil, are being refined.
Efforts are underway to engage Iraqi Kurdistan Peshmerga paramilitary forces in managing checkpoints along the border between Iraq and Syria, while also aiding Turkey in establishing logistics centers in key areas such as Metina, Haftanin, and Zap, anticipated to be the primary targets of the operation.
Turkish authorities have labeled the PKK as a significant threat to national security. The country's military has conducted numerous cross-border operations in northern Iraq and maintains a sizable troop presence near the border. Erdogan has previously announced intentions to complete the establishment of a security zone along the border with Iraq by summer.
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Based on materials from TASS