U.S. Condemns Terrorist Violence in Turkey

The United States condemns the attacks of October 7 and September 29, apparently conducted by PKK terrorists, in Sirnak province near the Iraqi border, which together resulted in the deaths of 13 Turkish soldiers and 12 civilians.

We express our condolences to the families of the victims and our solidarity with the Turkish people. The United States is committed to working with Turkey to combat the PKK and other terrorist groups that threaten Turkish citizens and interests. We will continue to cooperate with the Turkish government to neutralize the PKK terrorist threat.

PKK violence not only threatens Turkey, but also undermines the security and welfare of Iraq. Turkey and Iraq have vowed to collaborate in the fight against terrorism in an agreement concluded September 28. We call on Iraqi authorities to take effective measures against the PKK. We stand ready to support in every appropriate way efforts by Turkey and Iraq to protect their citizens and stop this terrorist violence.

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