ERDOĞAN SAYS OPERATIONS WILL CONTINUE

Speaking about the operation in Şemdinli region, Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said 115 terrorists have been killed in the process that began on July 23. Prime Minister Erdoğan extended his condolences for 8 martyrs and gave information about the operation in Şemdinli. Erdoğan said "115 terrorists have been killed so far. We are in control in every corner of the region. Security forces are allowed to take action anywhere they feel necessary." Erdoğan said PKK terrorists were trying to infiltrate into Turkey with the support of Syrian President Bassar Assad.

In response to a question whether a cross-border operation was on the table, Erdoğan said "It's all about timing. We already have 3 brigades having an exercise in the region." Erdoğan also pointed out that Presidential elections and local elections are going to be held in 2014, and if the opposition parties agree local elections could be held earlier than scheduled.