Abdullah Ocalan, founder of the PKK, has urged the group to disarm and dissolve for peace with Turkey. His letter, presented in Istanbul, highlights a potential historic moment for dialogue. Reactions suggest optimism regarding the ongoing conflict, and the PKK remains designated as a terrorist organization by Turkey and the U.S., with a history of violent attacks.
Abdullah Ocalan, the imprisoned founder of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), has released a letter urging the group to disarm and dissolve to foster peace with Turkey. He stated, “I am making a call for the laying down of arms, and I take on the historical responsibility of this call.” Ocalan emphasized the importance of democratic processes and the cessation of armed conflict as a necessary step towards peace.
The letter was presented during a conference in Istanbul, bringing positive reactions from attendees. Siri Sureyya Onder, a member of the Kurdish-allied People’s Equality and Democracy party, remarked that this moment represents a crucial historical turning point, stating, “This is the breaking point of history and it is a positive one.”
The possibility of peace is gaining momentum, especially after Turkish lawmaker Devlet Bahceli proposed that Ocalan address Parliament to confirm the laying down of arms. Bahceli is a political ally of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Additionally, the YPG, a PKK-affiliated militia in Syria that collaborates with the U.S. in combating ISIS, expressed optimism about Ocalan’s message. YPG spokesperson Siyamend Ali mentioned it could serve as a guide to resolving regional crises, emphasizing hopes for democracy and equal rights.
The PKK is classified as a terrorist organization by both Turkey and the United States, having been responsible for numerous violent incidents, including deadly attacks on civilians. A report from December 2024 by the U.S. Director of National Intelligence noted the group’s history of violence.
Ocalan’s call for the PKK to disarm represents a significant potential step towards ending a decades-long conflict with Turkey. His emphasis on democratic dialogue signals a shift in strategy that may influence peace efforts. The reactions from political figures and affiliated groups indicate a hopeful yet cautious approach to resolving existing tensions in the region.
Original Source: www.upi.com
