PKK Disbands After Four Decades of Conflict in Türkiye

Group declares mission complete, ends armed struggle following historic congress

The Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) has announced its disbandment, ending a 40-year conflict with the Turkish state. The statement followed a congress held last week in northern Iraq and was published by the Firat News Agency, a media outlet close to the group.

The PKK said it has “completed its historical mission.” The organization also declared that it would “formally end armed struggle and dissolve its structure.” This follows a call in February from jailed leader Abdullah Öcalan urging the group to lay down arms.

Öcalan, imprisoned since 1999, remains influential. His message was read aloud during the congress. The group called the decisions taken “historic” and said more details would be shared soon.
🔗 Erdoğan called the disbandment a ‘historic opportunity’

Türkiye reacts with cautious approval

Turkish officials responded positively to the announcement. A spokesperson from the ruling AK Party said it could mark a “turning point” if the PKK follows through.

The group has long been labeled a terrorist organization by Türkiye, the United States, and the European Union. Since the 1980s, the conflict has claimed more than 40,000 lives.

PKK urges peace, cites shifting regional landscape

In its statement, the PKK said the Kurdish people would support peace and democracy. It encouraged Kurdish political parties and civil society to help build a democratic Kurdish identity.

The announcement comes amid big changes in the region. Syria has a new administration. Hezbollah has lost influence in Lebanon. War continues in Gaza between Israel and Hamas.

The PKK has struggled in recent years. Turkish military operations have forced its fighters into northern Iraq. Isolated attacks continued, but the group had lost strength.

What comes next?

President Erdoğan has said disbanding the PKK is a historic step. Still, questions remain. The future of PKK fighters is unclear. There is no official plan for relocation or legal reintegration.

It’s also unknown if the PKK will receive any concessions for its decision. So far, Turkish officials have not revealed any part of a negotiated deal.