Kuwait city: The Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) has announced the withdrawal of all its forces from Turkiye to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, marking the second phase of a peace process that follows a prior disarmament effort. This development was confirmed by the PKK on Sunday, emphasizing its dedication to fostering peace and a democratic society, as aligned with the resolutions from the 12th PKK Congress.
According to Kuwait News Agency, the announcement follows calls for peace from prominent figures including Turkiye's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the leader of the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) Devlet Bahceli, and PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan. The peace process was initiated after escalating conflicts in the Middle East posed significant threats to both Kurds and Turkiye.
The PKK's statement highlights the peace initiative's evolution, notably influenced by Abdullah Ocalan's "call for peace and democratic society" on February 27, 2025. Over the past eight months, significant strides have been made toward establishing a stable environment for dialogue, initiated by a ceasefire declaration on March 1.
The PKK acknowledges the transformative effect of these steps on Turkiye's political and social atmosphere, attributing a renewed commitment to peace and democracy to the leadership of Abdullah Ocalan. Despite challenges from opposing factions, Ocalan and the PKK aim to fortify a "free, democratic, and brotherly life" for the future, advancing the peace process to a critical second phase.
The withdrawal of forces is underway from Turkish border areas to designated media defense zones, as a precaution against potential clashes. The PKK reiterates its adherence to the 12th Congress' resolutions and its intention to implement these once necessary legal and political frameworks are established. This includes the adoption of a transitional law specific to the PKK and immediate enactment of laws ensuring democratic freedoms and political integration.
A symbolic gesture underscoring this commitment occurred last July when the Peace and Democratic Society Group, comprising 30 members, ceremonially destroyed their weapons, solidifying their resolve to abandon armed conflict.