Overview of the Drone Strikes
Recent Turkish drone strikes in northern Iraq have resulted in the death of five members of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), according to reports from Iraqi Kurdistan’s counter-terrorism service. This military operation is part of Turkey’s ongoing efforts to dismantle PKK operations that it considers a threat to its national security.
Details of the Attacks
The first strike occurred on Saturday, targeting a location near Dohuk where three PKK members were killed, including a senior official within the organization. The following day, another strike was conducted in Sinjar, resulting in the deaths of two fighters from the Sinjar Resistance Units, who have ties to the PKK.
Context of the Conflict
For decades, the PKK has engaged in an armed insurgency against the Turkish government, which began in 1984. The group’s initial aim was to fight for Kurdish rights and autonomy within Turkey. Over the years, Turkey has established military outposts in northern Iraq to conduct operations against PKK militants. The ongoing conflict continues to affect regional stability as Turkey targets these militants to curb their influence and prevent attacks within its borders.