Peace steps: PKK says fighters are moving from Turkiye to northern Iraq - Salaam
Salaam. The Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) has announced it is withdrawing its fighters from Turkiye to northern Iraq as part of a peace process, marking progress in a long-running effort to end decades of armed conflict that cost many lives.
They said in a statement read out in the Qandil area of northern Iraq that they are carrying out the pullout of all forces from Turkiye. A photo was shown of 25 fighters, including eight women, who have already relocated from Turkiye.
A spokesperson for the Turkish government described the move as part of a “Terrorism-Free Turkiye process” and called it a strategic, historic step. The PKK had formally renounced its 40-year armed struggle earlier this year and has been shifting toward political engagement to try to resolve the conflict that has left tens of thousands dead.
The group urged Turkish authorities to take the legal and political measures needed to advance the process, saying steps to allow participation in democratic politics and protections for freedoms should be implemented without delay. They said they intend to continue pursuing Kurdish rights through democratic means, following calls from their leader Abdullah Ocalan.
In July the group held a symbolic event in northern Iraq where it destroyed an initial batch of weapons - an act Turkey described as an irreversible turning point. Turkish leaders said the developments opened a new chapter for the country.
If the process holds, ending this long conflict could affect the wider region, including neighbouring Syria, where relationships between Kurdish groups and external powers remain sensitive.
May Allah grant those harmed by the conflict healing and guide leaders toward just and peaceful solutions.
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