Ankara: The terrorist group PKK has no other choice "but to dissolve itself," the Turkish National Defense Ministry announced on Thursday. During a weekly press briefing, ministry spokesperson Adm. Zeki Akturk acknowledged that the PKK has belatedly realized it has reached the end of its lifespan.
According to Anadolu Agency, Adm. Akturk also addressed Turkey's cross-border anti-terrorist military operations, stating that 26 terrorists had been neutralized in the past week in locations including northern Iraq and Syria. Since January 1, a total of 478 terrorists have been neutralized. The Turkish Armed Forces remain committed to operations in the region to ensure the country's security and will continue to fight terrorism until no terrorists remain.
PKK terrorists often find refuge in northern Iraq to plan cross-border attacks on Turkey. The PKK/YPG, its Syrian branch, has attempted to establish a terrorist corridor in Syria along the Turkish border. The PKK, recognized as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the US, and the EU, has been responsible for over 40,000 deaths in its 40-year campaign against Turkey, including casualties among women, children, and the elderly.
The issue of humanitarian aid to Gaza was also discussed. The spokesperson condemned Israel's blockade on aid to Gaza as a violation of international law, emphasizing the importance of uninterrupted humanitarian aid and ceasing attacks in the West Bank for maintaining the ceasefire.
Additionally, the ministry addressed reports from Israeli media about Turkey establishing military bases in Syria. Officials urged caution regarding such reports, stating that they are inaccurate and stressing the importance of verifying such claims through official channels.
In terms of European security, the ministry underscored Turkey's integral role in the European security architecture as a NATO and OSCE member and an EU candidate country. They criticized the political obstruction of Turkey's participation in EU defense initiatives, highlighting the necessity of Turkey's full participation for Europe to emerge as a global actor.
The ministry also dismissed claims about deploying Turkish troops to Ukraine, reiterating that a fair and lasting peace can only be achieved through equal representation of both sides involved. Turkey remains committed to supporting peace initiatives and contributing to Ukraine's reconstruction.
The ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia persists with heavy military engagements and diplomatic efforts striving for a resolution. Ukraine continues to receive support from Western nations, while Russian President Vladimir Putin has suggested that the conflict could conclude swiftly if Western assistance to Kyiv is curtailed.