Türkiye is poised to initiate military operations against the PKK in Iraq, irrespective of the support from the Baghdad government. Notably, preparations are underway at full throttle, signaling that the operation could commence imminently. The primary objective is to establish a security zone spanning 30-40 kilometers wide and to ensure comprehensive control along the entire 378-kilometer borderline between the two countries.
"Türkiye has been combating terrorism since the 1980s. The nation is resolute in permanently eradicating the PKK terrorist organization and resolving this longstanding issue once and for all. Consequently, both the Iraqi and Türkiye governments are determined to eliminate the PKK presence situated in northern Iraq," stated Turkish political scientist Ismail Cingöz in an interview with Ednews.
Cingöz highlighted efforts to engage Iran in discussions to impede PKK members from seeking refuge in the country, thereby prompting close diplomatic dialogues between Ankara and Tehran. Additionally, Türkiye's establishment of a military base in Qatar signifies its transition from a regional power to a force combatting global terrorism.
Furthermore, strategic agreements such as Türkiye's maritime security pact with Somalia and energy security deal with Libya underscore its broader strategic objectives beyond the immediate region.
The political scientist emphasized Türkiye's pursuit of the Zangezur corridor to elevate regional trade onto the global stage: "A recent agreement between Iraq and Türkiye aims to establish a new Silk Road, connecting Basra to Türkiye through land, sea, and air routes, thereby facilitating international trade."
Moreover, Türkiye's focus on the Zangezur region of Azerbaijan underscores its multifaceted efforts to expedite the liberation of the area from separatist forces, aligning with its broader strategic objectives.