Well known fact that MBT's are vulnerable in urban setting and need to operate in a combined arms situation with engineers and AI/infantry and sometimes close air support.
Could the turks have sent in their tanks alone?
Everyone is vulnerable in an urban setting. Ask any infantryman who has fought in a city. Urban fighting now is different from your description. Yes, the AI is still accompanying tanks. But there are snipers on overwatch now, drones overhead, real time satellite imaging, etc.