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

UPDATES WITH AIRSTRIKES IN HAKURK REGION; CHANGES, HEADLINE, DECK, LEDE

Mumin Altas and Baris Gundogan

ANKARA (AA) - Turkish fighter jets "neutralized" seven PKK terrorists in northern Iraq, Turkey's National Defense Ministry said on Friday.

In a statement, the ministry said four terrorists were neutralized in the Gara region with airstrikes carried out in coordination with Turkey's National Intelligence Organization.

Later, the ministry announced that Turkish security forces "neutralized" three more PKK terrorists in Hakurk, northern Iraq.

The terrorists, identified through reconnaissance and surveillance activities, were neutralized in an air operation, the ministry said on Twitter.

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

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 40,000 people, including women, children and infants.

*Writing by Burak Dag