Amid recent optimistic developments concerning the resumption of dialogue between the Kurds and the Turkish state—particularly following Ömer Öcalan’s meeting with Abdullah Öcalan, the leader of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), in Imrali prison after 43 months of isolation—the Turkish army launched more than 42 airstrikes last night across various regions of Kurdistan. These strikes extended from the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI) to northeastern Syria (Rojava).
Despite the hopeful discussions, Turkish warplanes targeted several locations, including Tel Rifaat, Kobanê (Kobani), Qamishli (Qamişlo), Direk, al-Qahtaniya (Tirbespi), and Manbij (Minbic). Reports indicate that civilian homes and critical infrastructure were severely impacted by both air and ground assaults.
In Kobanê, the electricity and train stations were struck. In Qamishli, the attacks targeted grain silos, security buildings, and medical centres. An oil facility in al-Qahtaniya was also hit, while Turkish aircraft targeted a gas station and other infrastructure in Swedak (Dirka Hemko).
Initial reports indicate that at least eight people died in Swedak, with dozens more injured. According to the latest statistics, the death toll has now reached 12.
In the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, the attacks also hit Sinjar (Shingal) and Sharbajer in Sulaymaniyah province. In Sinjar, Turkish forces bombed civilian homes in the village of Khane Sor, injuring a woman.
Regarding Turkey’s relentless attacks on residential areas in northeastern Syria, Mazloum Abdi, General Commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), stated:
“Turkey indiscriminately and unjustifiably bombards our areas, targeting civilian, service, and health centres. This is a war crime. We have repeatedly shown our readiness for dialogue. Meanwhile, we affirm that our forces are ready to defend our people and land.”
In parallel, the Media Centre of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) issued a statement confirming that the Turkish military had targeted 42 locations during its bombardment of northern and eastern Syria. The statement added: “These included vital service institutions and densely populated areas. This ongoing barbaric aggression underscores Turkey’s hostility towards the people of northern and eastern Syria. It serves as a stark reminder of the threats posed by Turkey’s criminal mentality to regional peace. It represents an attempt to divert attention from Turkey’s internal crises at the expense of our communities, perpetuating chaos and escalating tensions in the region.”
The authorities of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq have yet to comment on last night’s airstrikes by the Turkish army.
