The deaths of 13 captives during Turkish airstrikes in the Garê region have created conflict among Turkish politicians and provoked accusations against the government for its failed rescue operation.
The Turkish army launched the “Claw-Eagle 2” military operation in the Garê region of Iraqi Kurdistan on 10 February.
Thirteen Turkish soldiers, police officers and intelligence personnel who were held captive in People’s Defence Forces’ (HPG) camps were killed during the operation. On 14 February the Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar made a statement announcing the end of the operation and blamed the deaths on Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) forces.
However, the PKK said the deaths were caused by airstrikes during the Turkish military operation. In a statement the PKK condemned the attack against the camp and claimed that “the Turkish state intended to destroy the captured soldiers”.
Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office began an investigation into HDP Istanbul Deputy Hüda Kaya and Kocaeli Deputy Ömer Faruk Gergerlioğlu because of their statements about the Garê operation.
The Human Rights Association (İHD) and many politicians reacted against the military operation and the death of 13 people as a result of the operation.
