Turkish jets ‘neutralize’ 15 PKK terrorists in N.Iraq

ISTANBUL

Turkish fighter jets have "neutralized" 15 more PKK terrorists in northern Iraq, Turkey's National Defense Ministry said on Wednesday.

The terrorists were "neutralized" in the Haftanin region as part of airstrikes carried out in coordination with Operation Claw, the ministry said on Twitter.

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

The airstrikes also destroyed weapon emplacements and shelters used by PKK terrorists, the ministry added.

On May 27, Turkey launched Operation Claw against the PKK in the Hakurk region of northern Iraq, which the terror group uses a base for attacks in Turkey.

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 some 40,000 people, including women, children, and infants.

Writing by Nilay Kar