Iraqi PM calls for PKK to be declared a "banned" organization
The Iraqi Prime Minister is responding to escalating military operations by the Turkish army against the PKK in Amedi, resulting in civilian casualties and destruction of farmland.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Iraqi Prime Minister and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Mohammed Shia al-Sudani has formally requested that government ministries, institutions, and agencies declare the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) a "banned" organization.
This directive was communicated through a letter dated July 14, 2024, sent by the Director General of the Department of Administrative Affairs, Falah Matrud al-Aboudi, to key governmental figures including:
The speaker of the Iraqi parliament, the first and second deputy speakers, decision-makers, the secretary general of the parliament, the deputy secretary general for parliamentary affairs, the deputy secretary general for administrative affairs, and parliamentary advisors.
Context of the Directive
The Prime Minister's call comes amidst escalating military operations by the Turkish army against the PKK in the district of Amedi.
Recent weeks have seen these operations result in civilian casualties and the destruction of several acres of farmland belonging to villagers.
Historical Tensions and Ongoing Conflict
The PKK, which has been engaged in an armed struggle with Turkey since 1984, is recognized as a terrorist organization by Iraq, Turkey, the United States, and the European Union.
According to unofficial estimates, the conflict has claimed more than 60,000 lives on both sides.
Impact on the Kurdistan Region
The establishment of PKK bases and headquarters in the border areas of the Kurdistan Region has significantly impacted local communities.
Read More: Civilian casualty in clash between PKK, Turkish Army in Shiladze
The ongoing conflict with the Turkish army has led to the displacement of residents from over 800 villages and the devastation of numerous tourist areas in Duhok province.
Read More: Turkish bombings, ongoing PKK conflict impact tourist numbers at some resorts in Duhok
This has caused substantial damage to the region's tourism and agricultural sectors, further complicating the lives of its citizens.
