Turkey 'neutralizes' 72 terrorists since start of Operation Claw

ISTANBUL

A total of 72 terrorists have been “neutralized” since the launch of Turkey's Operation Claw in northern Iraq, according to the National Defense Ministry on Saturday.

In a Twitter post, the ministry updated the numbers of PKK terrorists, who were “neutralized” in the operation in the Hakurk region.

Turkish authorities often use "neutralized" in statements to imply terrorists in question surrendered, were killed or captured.

On July 13, Turkey launched Operation Claw-2 as a follow-up to the successfully ongoing Claw-1, which was launched May 27.

Separately, the Defense Ministry said Turkish jets carried out airstrikes in Metina region of northern Iraq, "neutralizing" four more terrorists.

The strikes also destroyed weapon emplacements as well as shelters used by terrorists in the region, the ministry noted.

In its more than 30-year terror campaign against Turkey, the PKK -- listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the U.S. and the EU -- has been responsible for the deaths of 40,000 people, including women, children and infants.