UPDATE - Turkish forces 'neutralize' 7 PKK terrorists in N. Iraq

UPDATES HEADLINE, DECK, LEDE; ADDS NEW DETAILS

By Merve Aydogan and Jeyhun Aliyev

ANKARA (AA) - Turkish security forces “neutralized” at least seven PKK terrorists in northern Iraq, the National Defense Ministry announced on Tuesday.

The terrorists were “neutralized” in air-backed operation in Haftanin, Avasin, and Metina regions after being detected by reconnaissance and surveillance activities, the ministry said on Twitter.

"Our operations will continue until the last terrorist is neutralized," it added, and also shared a video footage of the operation.

Turkish authorities often use the word "neutralize" to imply the terrorists in question surrendered or were killed or captured.

Turkey's operations Claw-Tiger and Claw-Eagle were launched in June to ensure the safety of the Turkish people and borders by neutralizing the threat of PKK, and other terrorist groups, who often use northern Iraq to plan cross-border attacks.

In its more than 30-year terror campaign against Turkey, the PKK -- listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the US, and the EU -- has been responsible for the deaths of over 40,000 people, including women, children and infants.