Twelve Turkish soldiers died from methane gas exposure while searching a cave in northern Iraq during Operation Claw Lock. The soldiers were looking for the remains of a comrade killed in May 2022. Nineteen personnel were affected, with twelve succumbing to the gas. President Erdogan expressed sorrow and condolences. The incident occurred during a military operation against the PKK, a group that recently declared a ceasefire and intends to disarm.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.