Turkey launched Operation Claw-Eagle in northern Iraq during the night of 14–15 June 2020, targeting positions associated with the Kurdistan Workers’ Party.
A new cross-border air campaign
Turkey’s defence ministry said aircraft struck caves and shelters in several areas. Ankara described the operation as a response to security threats from the PKK, which Turkey, the United States and the European Union designate as a terrorist organisation.
The operation was followed by a ground campaign called Claw-Tiger. Iraqi authorities objected to violations of sovereignty, while reports of civilian harm intensified concern about proportionality and accountability. Conflicting claims from the parties require cautious independent verification.
Why it mattered
This event formed part of Turkey’s political, security, economic or social record in 2020 and continued to shape public debate beyond the immediate news cycle.
Sources
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Zeynep Aziz is a social-affairs specialist, writer and advocate with advanced academic qualifications in both Social Sciences and International Relations. Her multidisciplinary education has given her a strong understanding of society, public policy, human rights and the political forces shaping Turkey’s domestic and international development.
For many years, Zeynep has been actively engaged in social affairs and initiatives supporting the rights and well-being of Turkish citizens. Her work pays particular attention to social equality, democratic participation and the protection of vulnerable and disadvantaged communities.
Women’s rights remain central to her interests and advocacy. She works to raise awareness of the challenges faced by women in Turkey, including discrimination, violence, unequal opportunities and barriers to full participation in political, professional and social life. She strongly supports women’s empowerment, equal access to education and employment, and effective legal protection for women and girls.
Alongside her social work, Zeynep closely follows Turkey’s international relations and foreign policy. She takes a keen interest in Turkey’s relations with Europe, neighbouring countries and international institutions, as well as the impact of regional and global developments on Turkish society.
Through her writing and public engagement, Zeynep seeks to encourage informed discussion, strengthen respect for human rights and contribute to a fairer, more democratic and inclusive Turkey.
Zeynep Aziz
