Iraq: Turkiye warplanes conduct airstrikes targeting PKK elements in northern Iraq late Oct. 1

Event

Turkish military officials issued a statement claiming it conducted airstrikes against targets linked to the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) in northern Iraq late Oct. 1. The airstrikes are in retaliation for an earlier suicide bombing at the Ministry of Interior building in Ankara that injured two police officers; the PKK claimed responsibility for the attack. Impacted locations in northern Iraq include Metine, Qandil, Hakurk, and Gara regions. While the PKK has yet to provide any statements regarding the casualties associated with the airstrikes, Turkish officials have claimed destroying 20 targets belonging to the PKK.

Military forces in southeastern Turkiye will almost certainly maintain a heightened security posture over the coming days. Further airstrikes are possible, including on targets in northern Syria. Airstrikes will likely continue targeting mountainous border areas in Iraq, where PKK forces are primarily based.

Advice

Exercise caution and avoid all military sites in Iraq. Heed the instructions of local security forces. If airstrikes, artillery fire, or warning sirens are reported in the general vicinity, take cover in the nearest bomb shelter and remain there until given further instructions by authorities.