Turkish Defense Minister: PKK Must Disarm Unconditionally

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Turkish Defense Minister Yaşar Güler on Friday, stated that the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) must lay down its arms unconditionally and dissolve itself, emphasizing that Turkey’s ultimate goal is to eradicate terrorism.

Turkey Rejects Any Conditional Ceasefire

Speaking at a press conference, Güler reaffirmed Turkey's firm stance, stressing that the PKK and its affiliated groups must disarm immediately without any preconditions.

"We will not accept a conditional ceasefire, nor will we allow it to become part of any political agenda," Güler said.

He further emphasized that the demand of 85 million Turkish citizens is to eliminate terrorism completely, stating that "any organization posing a threat to our country will be dealt with decisively."

PKK’s Response to Öcalan’s Call for Disarmament

The remarks by the Turkish defense minister come amid significant developments in Turkey’s peace process with the PKK.

On Feb. 27, 2025, a delegation from İmralı, after meeting with Abdullah Öcalan, the jailed PKK leader, read out his message in a press conference.

The statement, delivered in both Kurdish and Turkish, urged the PKK to disarm and dissolve itself, emphasizing that the future of the Kurdish issue must be pursued through democratic means.

Öcalan Takes Responsibility for the Decision

Former mayor of Mardin, Ahmet Türk, who read Öcalan’s statement, reiterated that the PKK was initially formed due to the lack of democratic avenues but emphasized that the current phase requires dialogue and peace.

Öcalan stated in his message that the PKK must declare its disarmament, dissolve itself, and convene a final congress.

Additionally, Öcalan acknowledged full responsibility for this call, assuring that he guarantees a peaceful resolution through dialogue.

Despite Öcalan’s appeal, Ankara has shown no willingness to compromise, maintaining that the PKK’s disarmament must be unconditional and immediate.