UPDATE 2-Turkey launches counter-terror operation in north Iraq

UPDATES WITH TURKISH PRESIDENT'S STATEMENT

By Sarp Ozer and Fatih Hafiz Mehmet

ANKARA (AA) - The Turkish Armed Forces launched a counter-terrorism operation in Hakurk, northern Iraq, according to a statement by the National Defense Ministry on Tuesday.

The military offensive initiated on Monday aims to neutralize terrorists in the area.

The offensive began with artillery shelling and continued with airstrikes and commando operations.

Airstrikes destroyed weapons positions, shelters, caves and ammunition depots used by the terrorists, with support from combat drones.

The ministry underlined that the operation was ongoing, as planned.

Turkish National Defense Minister Hulusi Akar and top generals of the Turkish Armed Forces commanded the operation throughout the night.

Later on Tuesday, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan tweeted regarding the operation.

Erdogan wished success to the Turkish soldiers in this "difficult" cross-border operation.

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