Turkish intelligence operation in Iraq targets key PKK/KCK figures

In a targeted operation conducted by Türkiye's National Intelligence Organisation (MİT) in Sulaymaniye province, northern Iraq, a high-profile PKK/KCK commander and two other members of the group have been neutralized.

The operation resulted in the elimination of Omer Firat, a PKK/KCK commander known by the codename "Tolhildan", Caliber.Az reports citing foreign media.

Firat was a key figure in the organization. Alongside him, two additional fighters identified as Iranian nationals — Irfan Zendi, codenamed "Raman Renas," and Hidayet Resouli, codenamed "Chengaver Mikail" — were also neutralized.

The neutralization of these individuals occurred during an air operation executed by MİT.

In addition to the operation in Iraq, the Turkish Armed Forces have targeted PKK/YPG terrorists in northern Syria. The Turkish Ministry of National Defence announced on its social media platform X that three PKK/YPG terrorists were neutralized in the area of Operation Olive Branch.

This series of operations underscores Türkiye's ongoing efforts to combat terrorist threats both within its borders and in neighbouring regions.

The PKK, a designated terrorist organization by Türkiye, the US, and the EU, frequently uses northern Iraq, near the Turkish border, as a base for planning attacks against Türkiye. Türkiye's wanted list categorizes suspects into five colour-coded levels: red (most wanted), blue, green, orange, and grey.

Over its nearly 40-year campaign, the PKK has been responsible for the deaths of over 40,000 people, including women, children, and infants, making it one of the most notorious terrorist organisations in the region.