According to reports in Turkish media, Iranian Defense Minister Amir Hatami said that Iran and Turkey could take action against the PKK in northern Iraq if the Baghdad government allows it, Daily Sabah reported.

Ankara and Tehran have been strengthening relations at a growing pace in Syria. The two countries are part of the Astana process and the Syrian National Dialogue Congress. The presidents of the two countries also met earlier this month in Ankara as a sign of solidarity.

The Turkish government has been signaling an all-around offensive against PKK headquarters in the Qandil Mountains and the Sinjar region in northern Iraq.

Last month, the PKK announced that it withdrew from Sinjar. However, Turkish security and intelligence sources were cited as saying that PKK forces are hiding in the town center as civilians and remain ready to take up arms.

Reporter’s code: 50101