Turkish army 'neutralizes' 6 militants in north Iraq  

ANKARA – Anadolu Agency

Six militants were “neutralized” during Turkish airstrikes on July 13 in northern Iraq, according to the military.         

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

The airstrikes were carried out in northern Iraq's Zap and Gara regions, the Turkish army said in a statement on July 14.

The Turkish General Staff did not specify the groups involved, but Turkey is embroiled in a long-running struggle against the outlawed Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) in the area.       

"The terrorists were planning an attack on security forces. Counter-terrorism operations are ongoing in the area," statement added.       

The PKK, listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the U.S. and the EU, resumed its armed campaign against Turkey in July 2015.