Turkish Jets Conduct Strikes on Kurdish Militant Targets in Iraq and Syria After TUSAS Attack

Turkish jets have targeted Kurdish militant positions in Iraq and Syria. This action follows an attack on Turkey's state-run aerospace and defence company, TUSAS. The Turkish defence ministry reported that over 30 targets were "destroyed" in the operation. The assault on TUSAS resulted in five deaths and more than a dozen injuries, according to the interior minister.

The attack on TUSAS was carried out by two individuals, a man and a woman, who were both killed during the incident. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya indicated that the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) is suspected of orchestrating the attack, although investigations are ongoing to confirm the identities of the attackers. Defence Minister Yasar Guler also blamed the PKK for the violence.

International Reactions and Condemnations

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemned the attack during a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who expressed his condolences. The US Embassy in Turkey also denounced the attack, stating it "strongly condemns today's terrorist attack." The Iraqi embassy in Ankara issued a statement rejecting terrorism and expressing solidarity with Turkey.

TUSAS is known for designing and manufacturing both civilian and military aircraft, including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). These UAVs have played a significant role in Turkey's operations against Kurdish militants within its borders and in Iraq. The attack occurred shortly after discussions about potentially granting parole to PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan if he renounces violence.

The pro-Kurdish political party in Turkey condemned the attack as well. They noted that it happened at a time when dialogue to resolve the conflict seemed possible. The PKK has been fighting for autonomy in southeast Turkey since the 1980s, resulting in tens of thousands of deaths. It is labelled a terrorist organisation by Turkey and its Western allies.

Details of the Attack

Reports indicate that the attackers arrived at TUSAS in a taxi, armed with assault weapons. They detonated an explosive device near the taxi, causing chaos and enabling their entry into the complex. One victim was identified as Zahide Guclu, a mechanical engineer who was at the entrance to collect flowers from her husband.

The taxi driver was also killed, with his body discovered in the vehicle's trunk. Orhan Akdundar, whose brother works at TUSAS, described calling his brother during the attack. "There was a huge commotion," he said, noting that security forces and ambulances quickly arrived on scene.

Security footage showed one attacker carrying a backpack and an assault rifle. Security teams responded promptly when the attack began around 3:30 p.m., with helicopters seen overhead. Authorities imposed a temporary media blackout on coverage of the incident and restricted access to social media platforms.

Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz stated that Turkey's success in the defence industry was targeted by this attack. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed solidarity with Turkey through his deputy spokesman Farhan Haq. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis also condemned the attack, offering condolences to victims' families via social media.

An unnamed TUSAS employee declared: "We will work harder and produce more in defiance of the traitors," as colleagues were evacuated from the site. This sentiment reflects resilience amidst adversity faced by those affected by this tragic event.