Imprisoned PKK Founder Calls for Disarmament and Peace with Turkey

Abdullah Ocalan, founder of the PKK, has called for the group to disarm and dissolve to promote peace with Turkey. His message, read with enthusiasm in Istanbul, indicates a momentous opportunity to end nearly five decades of conflict. Turkish political figures have joined the call for peace, suggesting significant changes ahead in the region’s dynamics.

On February 27, Abdullah Ocalan, the imprisoned founder of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), issued a significant call for the group to disarm and dissolve in order to achieve peace with Turkey. In his letter, he expressed his historical responsibility for this appeal, stating, “I am making a call for the laying down of arms,” encouraging the PKK members to convene a congress to decide on this matter.

During an event in Istanbul, Ocalan’s letter was read aloud, receiving a positive reception. Siri Sureyya Onder, a member of the Kurdish-allied People’s Equality and Democracy party, emphasized the momentous nature of Ocalan’s message, calling it “the breaking point of history and it is a positive one.” This development may facilitate the resolution of the long-standing conflict between Turkey and the PKK.

Relations improved recently as far-right Turkish lawmaker Devlet Bahceli invited Ocalan to address Parliament and formally declare the laying down of arms. This invitation came from an influential political figure allied with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, further signaling a potential shift toward peace. The PKK’s influence also extends to Syria, where the People’s Protection Units (YPG) allies with the United States in combating ISIS.

Siyamend Ali, a spokesperson for the YPG, remarked that Ocalan’s message could significantly affect unresolved regional crises. He expressed hope for an end to conflicts and called for democratic governance, stating the YPG wishes for equality and dialogue to address ongoing issues. The PKK is classified as a terrorist organization by both Turkey and the United States, having previously orchestrated numerous attacks resulting in civilian casualties.

In summary, Abdullah Ocalan’s recent call for the PKK to disarm and dissolve represents a potential breakthrough towards peace with Turkey. His letter, which was positively received during an event in Istanbul, emphasizes the importance of dialogue and democratic principles. The response from Turkish lawmakers and Kurdish entities signals a possible turning point in the longstanding conflict, as efforts towards resolving regional crises gain momentum.

Original Source: www.upi.com