A Kurdish militant group has claimed responsibility for a deadly attack on Turkey’s state-owned defense manufacturer headquarters near Ankara, resulting in the deaths of five individuals. The PKK stated that its target was Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), accusing the company of producing arms that have led to the deaths of thousands of Kurds, including women and children.
In a detailed statement, the PKK declared the assault was premeditated and intended to send a message, distancing itself from speculation that it aimed to disrupt potential reconciliation efforts with the Turkish government. The attack, which injured 22 people, has raised concerns of escalating tensions in the region.
As a vital supplier for Turkey’s military, TAI plays a crucial role in the production of military aircraft, including F-16 fighter jets.
Following the incident, the Turkish government identified the attackers as PKK members and has conducted extensive airstrikes on suspected PKK locations in Iraq and Syria, claiming to have eliminated 59 militants. However, reports from local forces indicated that 12 civilians, including children, were among the casualties.
The PKK, categorized as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the US, and the UK, has been engaged in a protracted conflict with the Turkish state since the 1980s, advocating for greater rights for the Kurdish population in Turkey.
The armed wing of the PKK, known as the People’s Defense Forces (HPG), labeled the attackers as heroes belonging to what it calls the “Immortals Battalion,” asserting that TAI represents a legitimate military target due to its role in producing weapons.
In response to the attack, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemned the strike as “heinous,” emphasizing that no terrorist organization targeting national security will succeed in its objectives.
The HPG further clarified that their operations are not frequent but intended to serve as warnings to the Turkish government. The victims included five employees of TAI and a taxi driver, all named by official sources.
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed that the two attackers had been neutralized. The HPG has maintained that the assault was unrelated to recent political discussions surrounding a potential ceasefire agreement with the Turkish state. Speculation on a peace deal had been growing, especially following calls from Erdogan’s ally regarding the possible release of PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan under specific conditions.
