ERBIL — The Turkish Defense Ministry announced on Sunday that its armed forces had “neutralized” 16 members of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) in operations conducted in the border areas of the Kurdistan Region and Syria.

According to the National Defense Ministry, Turkish forces identified and “neutralized” 14 PKK fighters in the Hakurk and Metina areas of the Kurdistan Region. The remaining two fighters were reportedly “neutralized” in an operation in northern Syria.

Turkish authorities usually use the term “neutralize” to indicate that the PKK members were either killed or arrested.

“Operations will continue with determination and resolve to eliminate terrorism at its source!” the ministry stated on X, without providing additional details.

The PKK, which took up arms against the Turkish state in 1984, is designated as a “terrorist organization” by Turkey. The group maintains strongholds in the rugged, mountainous areas of the Kurdistan Region, territories that frequently endure Turkish airstrikes and artillery barrages. These attacks have led to civilian casualties and the abandonment of numerous villages and vast agricultural lands.

Kurdish authorities have repeatedly urged both the Turkish army and the PKK to avoid using Kurdistan Region territory as a battlefield for their disputes. Despite these calls, both sides have continued their hostilities.

In a recent statement to the Turkish Daily Sabah, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani pledged increased efforts against the PKK. He highlighted plans to enhance cooperation with Turkey on issues related to terrorism, water, trade routes, and energy in the coming months.

Sudani acknowledged the complexities surrounding the PKK's presence in Iraq and the underlying causes of the ongoing conflict. “It is an issue that has not seen enough efforts to resolve it fundamentally. However, we adhere to consistent principles when dealing with the PKK or any other entity,” the prime minister stated.