Turkish army has launched an expansive operation in the countryside of Van province Friday evening.

The operation involves a large territory including Aksin, Mêkoşk, Varjon, Akçire, Xazir, Şivreş, Awan and Aşkan regions in Van’s Gürpınar district.

Thousands of soldiers, village guards and special units are participating in the operation alongside helicopters and armored vehicles.