In the aftermath of the elections, Turkey has ramped up its cross-border operations targeting Kurdish forces in Iraq and Syria, resulting in escalating conflicts and increasing casualties. The decision to end the ceasefire by Kurdish guerrillas active in northern Iraq and the heightened military operations in the region have exacerbated the situation.
The Turkish Armed Forces have been conducting military operations in the Zap, Avaşîn and Metîna regions of northern Iraq since 23 April 2021. These operations have intensified, with the military sharing aerial footage of airstrikes and photos of captured ammunition belonging to the guerrillas. On the other hand, the People’s Defence Forces (HPG) have been disseminating information regarding Turkish offensives.
According to the HPG Press Centre, Kurdish forces in northern Iraq were subjected to 12 airstrikes on 13 and 14 June. Furthermore, on 12 and 13 June, Kurdish forces in the region were bombarded 318 times with howitzers, tanks, and heavy weapons.
The HPG also stated that they caused the deaths of 12 soldiers in their response to Turkish military operations on 11 June, although the Turkish Ministry of National Defence only acknowledged two casualties. In addition to the soldiers killed, a Turkish military vehicle was also destroyed by Kurdish guerrillas.
After more than four months of self-imposed restraint, which the Kurdish forces declared in immediate response to the February earthquakes, the Kurdistan Communities Union (KCK) Co-Presidency Council announced the termination of its unilateral ceasefire at the beginning of the week, citing escalated attacks by Turkey.
The intensification of cross-border operations by Turkey poses a significant challenge to the already fragile Kurdish conflict in the region. The increasing casualties on both sides further exacerbate tensions and raise concerns about the prospects for peace.
