In a historic move, the PKK terror group has officially declared its dissolution, bringing an end to over 40 years of armed conflict with Türkiye. The announcement, made through the Firat News Agency, followed the group’s 12th congress in northern Iraq, where members voted to disband and cease armed operations, echoing calls for peace from imprisoned leader Abdullah Öcalan.
The Turkish government has responded cautiously, expressing hope that the development could pave the way for lasting peace after a conflict that claimed nearly 40,000 lives since the late 1970s. Öcalan, who has been imprisoned since his capture in 1999, reiterated in February his call for the PKK to lay down its arms and pursue democratic solutions.
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International observers note that the PKK’s dissolution could reshape regional dynamics. Israeli media have speculated that the disbandment may weaken Israel’s strategic posture in Syria, while enhancing Türkiye’s influence in the region.
As the dust settles on this landmark decision, stakeholders across the Middle East are closely watching how the security and diplomatic landscape will evolve in the coming months.
