Turkish National Defense Minister Yasar Guler declared on Sunday the 'neutralization' of over 2,000 fighters belonging to the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) during the current year. The term 'neutralization,' as used by Turkish authorities, encompasses actions like killing or arresting within the context of the country's military operations against the PKK.

"The total number of terrorists neutralized since the beginning of the year has reached 2,156," reported Anadolu Agency, quoting Minister Guler. He affirmed an unyielding offensive approach, vowing to continue operations until the eradication of what he referred to as "bloody terrorists" from the region, regardless of external support.

The announcement follows recent cross-border operations targeting PKK positions in the Kurdistan Region, where 12 Turkish soldiers lost their lives, and six others sustained injuries. The escalating violence and pressure have prompted Turkish authorities to intensify their efforts against the longstanding PKK insurgency.

The protracted conflict between Turkey and the PKK has had profound repercussions on daily life in the Kurdistan Region. Continuous clashes and bombings have resulted in numerous civilian casualties, leading to the evacuation of thousands of villages. Additionally, the conflict has forced the abandonment of mountain resorts and vast agricultural areas.

On Friday, the Turkish National Defense Ministry disclosed that six soldiers had died in an operation against the PKK in the Kurdistan Region, further underscoring the gravity of the situation and the persistent challenges faced by the Turkish military in its ongoing campaign against the separatist group.