Twelve Turkish soldiers died from methane gas exposure while searching a cave in northern Iraq during a military operation. The cave search was part of Operation Claw Lock, aimed at targeting PKK militants. A total of 19 personnel were affected, and the soldiers were reportedly trying to recover the body of a comrade killed in 2022. Methane gas, though not toxic, can cause suffocation in enclosed areas. The source of the dangerous gas levels in the cave remains unknown. A farewell ceremony was held in Hakkari province, and the bodies were later returned to their hometowns. President Erdogan expressed deep sorrow over the loss and extended condolences to the families and military community. The PKK, considered a terrorist group by Turkey and several Western nations, has been in conflict with Turkey for over 40 years, leading to the deaths of more than 40,000 people.
Abba Father, we lift up the families of the fallen Turkish soldiers. Comfort them in their grief and give them strength through this painful loss (The Bible, Psalm 34:18).
Lord, we pray for lasting peace in the region and an end to the decades of conflict. May justice, reconciliation, and understanding replace war and violence (The Bible, John 14:27).
News Source: BBC
Image Source: Canva
