Öcalan signals readiness for peace through first public message in years

"If conditions are favorable, I have both the theoretical and practical authority to transition this process from conflict and violence to legal and political grounds," Öcalan stated in the message relayed through his nephew.

Abdullah Öcalan. (Photo: Kurdistan 24)
Abdullah Öcalan. (Photo: Kurdistan 24)

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) - In a significant development in Turkish-Kurdish relations, Abdullah Öcalan has conveyed his first public message in years through his nephew, Ömer Öcalan, expressing willingness to transform the decades-long conflict into a legal and political process.
"If conditions are favorable, I have both the theoretical and practical authority to transition this process from conflict and violence to legal and political grounds," Öcalan stated in the message relayed through his nephew.
This statement comes at a crucial moment in Turkish politics, following:
1.    The recent family visit to İmralı Island after an 18-month separation
2.    MHP leader Devlet Bahçeli's unexpected proposal about Öcalan addressing parliament
3.    Increasing regional tensions and recent military operations in Syria
Significance of the Message
This rare public communication from Öcalan carries particular weight given his historical role and influence. His reference to having both "theoretical and practical authority" suggests:
•    Continued influence over the Kurdish movement
•    Potential willingness to engage in a new peace process
•    Recognition of the need for legal and political solutions rather than armed conflict
Öcalan's message echoes elements of the previous peace process (2013-2015), during which he played a central role in negotiations between the Turkish state and Kurdish movement. 

This is a developing story. Stay tuned for further updates.