In response to the deaths of nine Turkish soldiers in an attack on a military base in Iraq, Turkey has launched airstrikes on multiple locations believed to be linked to Kurdish groups in Syria and northern Iraq. The Turkish defence ministry confirmed that the raids targeted 29 locations, including caves, bunkers, shelters, and oil installations belonging to the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) and the People's Protection Units (YPG), a Syrian Kurdish group.

The airstrikes, which occurred on Saturday, aimed to retaliate against what Turkey perceives as terrorist attacks on its people and security forces. The ministry did not specify the areas in Syria that were targeted but mentioned that the attacks in Iraq were carried out in Metina, Hakurk, Gara, and Qandil regions. The statement further highlighted that "many" armed fighters were "neutralized" during the operations, referring to captured or killed combatants.

The PKK, considered a terrorist organization by Turkey, the European Union, and the United States, has long been engaged in a conflict with the Turkish state since 1984. Turkey has frequently conducted attacks on locations in Syria and Iraq that it suspects to be associated with the PKK. The Kurdish separatist group is banned in Turkey, and its presence is vehemently opposed by the Turkish government.

Notably, the YPG, one of the targeted groups, has been a crucial element in the United States-allied coalition against ISIS (ISIL). However, Turkey and the US hold conflicting views on the status of Syrian Kurdish groups.

In addition to the airstrikes, Turkey also conducted nationwide raids leading to the arrest of 113 individuals suspected of having links to the PKK. Turkey's strong stance against the group was reaffirmed by Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, who stated that they would continue their fight against the PKK both within and outside their borders.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is set to hold a security meeting in Istanbul later in the day, emphasizing Turkey's commitment to address the threat posed by the PKK.

The recent attack on the military base in Iraq follows another incident three weeks ago, where PKK-affiliated fighters attempted to break into a Turkish base, resulting in the deaths of six soldiers. In response, Turkey launched counter-attacks against alleged PKK sites in Iraq and Syria.

The conflict between the Turkish state and the PKK has claimed over 40,000 lives since its inception. Turkey's military operations in northern Iraq have drawn criticism from the Iraqi government, which has repeatedly demanded the withdrawal of Turkish troops.

The situation highlights the ongoing challenges surrounding Kurdish groups and their divergent status and roles within the region's complex geopolitical landscape.