For the seventh consecutive day, wildfires continue to devastate various regions of Turkey, claiming two lives and causing widespread destruction. A previously unknown group calling itself ‘Children of Fire’ has taken responsibility for dozens of arson attacks across the country, claiming ties to the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), which is labeled a terrorist organization by Turkey, the U.S., and the EU.
One of the victims was an 81-year-old bedridden man who perished alone in his home as flames engulfed it. Shortly after, excavator operator Ibrahim Demir lost his life while participating in firefighting operations in the Edemis area, according to Anadolu news agency.
The ‘Children of Fire’ have released a statement online, taking credit for multiple wildfires in six Turkish cities. The group remains largely obscure but claims affiliation with the PKK, which announced last May that it would end its 40-year insurgency and dissolve itself. So far, the PKK has not commented on the situation.
Firefighters, supported by helicopters and aircraft, are still battling blazes in mountainous areas around Izmir. Authorities have closed roads near the resort town of Cesme, while Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya reported that about 200 homes have been destroyed, offering temporary housing to displaced residents.
According to Anadolu, new fires broke out on July 3rd in Antalya and forested areas near Istanbul. Firefighters managed to contain several fronts, but conditions remain critical due to strong winds fueling the flames.