PKK’s Decision to Disband Marks Potential Turning Point for ‘Terror-Free Türkiye’: AK Party Spokesman

By Dler Mohammed

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — The decision by the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) to dissolve and lay down arms represents a pivotal moment in Türkiye’s fight against terrorism, according to a senior official from the country’s ruling party.

Omer Celik, spokesperson for the ruling Justice and Development (AK) Party, described the development as a “key step toward a terror-free Türkiye,” if fully implemented. His remarks were made on Monday and cited by the Turkish state-run Anadolu Agency (AA).

“The decision of the PKK to dissolve itself and lay down its arms following the call from Imrali is an important step towards the goal of 'terror-free Türkiye',” Celik said.

The AK Party official emphasized that the significance of the move hinges on its execution, particularly in dismantling the PKK’s various branches and associated illegal structures.

“If the new PKK decision is fully implemented, shutting down all PKK branches, illegal structures, it will be a turning point,” he added.

Celik noted that the process will be carefully monitored by Turkish state institutions, with regular updates to be delivered to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

The PKK, which has waged a decades-long armed campaign against the Turkish state, is designated a terrorist organization by Türkiye, the United States, and the European Union.

Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani on Monday welcomed the PKK's decision to disarm and dissolve its organizational structure, calling it a “historic and decisive step” toward peace in Turkey and the broader region. The PKK's announcement came following the guidance of its jailed leader, Abdullah Öcalan. In a formal statement, Barzani described the move as a demonstration of political maturity and a critical opportunity to initiate genuine dialogue, urging all parties to respond constructively to pave the way for lasting peace and stability.