The Turkish military have sent ground troops into Iraq for the first time since the rising tensions regarding the Kurdistan Worker’s Party (PKK).  The Turkish military reported that the attacks were a success and that PKK bases had heavy losses inflicted upon them.

The Turkish intelligence believes that the PKK is being supported by the northern Iraqi Kurds. The Turkish military had previously threatened to strike with ground forces, but before this attack they had only sent air strikes.

Reportedly, the Turkish military was supported by American intelligence to capture the PKK members.  However, the US has denied any such support.  (BBC)  This perception of support by the Americans caused Iraqi Kurdish leader Barzani to skip his meeting with U. S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.

For more information, please see:

BBC- US denies backing Turkey PKK raid- 17 December 2007

International Herald Tribune (AP)- Turkey’s military confirms ground incursion; claims inflicted heavy losses- 18 December 2007

Reuters- Iraq Kurdish leader snubs Rice over Turkey raid- 18 December 2007