Qandil Mountains: In a historic move that could reshape Turkey’s long-standing conflict with Kurdish insurgents, the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) announced on Sunday that it will withdraw its militants from Turkish territory as part of a broader disarmament initiative. The announcement, made from the PKK’s stronghold in northern Iraq, marks a significant shift in a decades-long insurgency that has claimed tens of thousands of lives since 1984.
The PKK, recognized as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the United States, and the European Union, emphasized that this withdrawal is a critical step in its transition toward peaceful political engagement. The group called on the Turkish government to implement “legal and political measures” that would allow former militants to participate in democratic processes, signaling a desire to transform from an armed organization into a legitimate political actor.
This decision follows directives from the PKK’s jailed leader, Abdullah Öcalan, who in May 2025 urged the group to pursue disarmament and reconciliation. In a symbolic gesture, PKK fighters previously burned a portion of their weaponry in July, highlighting their commitment to the peace process. Analysts say such measures are crucial to building mutual trust between Ankara and Kurdish representatives.
Turkey has welcomed the announcement as a meaningful step toward stability. Government spokesperson Ömer Çelik described the withdrawal as evidence that “peaceful solutions are possible” and indicated that a parliamentary commission would soon be established to address the legal framework for integrating former PKK members into society. Ankara has consistently stressed that any disarmament must be coupled with tangible political reforms to ensure lasting peace.
Observers note that the implications of this development extend beyond Turkey’s borders. Kurdish forces allied with the U.S. in northern Syria are often linked to the PKK in Ankara’s view, raising questions about how Turkey’s broader regional security policies may evolve if the disarmament proceeds smoothly. Many hope that this initiative could reduce tensions along the Turkish-Syrian border and contribute to greater regional stability.
While challenges remain, including lingering mistrust and the need for legal reforms, experts suggest that this announcement could represent the most promising opportunity in decades for reconciliation between the Turkish state and its Kurdish population. The coming weeks and months will be closely watched as both sides take steps to implement the PKK’s withdrawal and advance the disarmament process.