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A group of PKK militants laid down their arms on Friday in Iraq’s northern Sulaymaniyah province, marking a significant step in Turkey’s ongoing efforts to eradicate terrorism and achieve lasting peace in the region.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan welcomed the development, expressing hope that the steps taken toward a terrorism-free Turkey would yield “positive results.”
In a message posted on X, Erdogan prayed for success in securing “our nation’s safety, our people’s peace, and the establishment of lasting regional stability.”
Turkey’s Communications Director Burhanettin Duran also commented on the event, saying the country would emerge stronger in a future free from terrorism.
He emphasized that Turkey would be well-positioned to realize its “Century of Turkey” vision by further reinforcing national unity and solidarity.
According to official reports, 30 PKK militants — including 15 women — surrendered and destroyed their weapons by casting them into a large burning cauldron.
The act follows a decision made by the PKK in May to dissolve and disarm. That move was triggered by a February statement from jailed PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan, who called for an end to the group’s decades-long armed campaign and urged the organization and its affiliates to lay down arms permanently.
The PKK, designated a terrorist organization by Turkey, the United States, and the European Union, has been responsible for more than 40,000 deaths over the past 40 years, including women, children, and the elderly.
This latest disarmament action is seen as a key component of a broader five-stage peace process, aimed at dismantling terrorist structures and fostering national reconciliation.