Rocket fired by PYD/PKK from Syria hits southern Turkey

By Rauf Maltas

KILIS, Turkey

A rocket fired by PYD/PKK terrorists in Syria hit Turkey’s border province of Kilis Thursday as Operation Olive Branch continued.

The rocket landed in an empty area in the Ekrem Cetin neighborhood of Kilis, according to an Anadolu Agency correspondent on the ground.

No casualties were reported.

The rocket, which did not explode, was taken away by security units.

Turkish forces immediately responded to the attack with Firtina howitzers.

Turkey launched Operation Olive Branch on Jan. 20 to clear PYD/PKK and Daesh terrorists from Afrin in northwestern Syria.

Since the start of the operation, the PYD/PKK has targeted civilians in cross-border attacks on Turkish neighborhoods.

According to the Turkish General Staff, Operation Olive Branch aims to establish security and stability along Turkish borders and the region as well as protect the Syrian people from the oppression and cruelty of terrorists.

The operation is being carried out under the framework of Turkey’s rights based on international law, UN Security Council decisions, self-defense rights under the UN Charter, and respect for Syria's territorial integrity.