Abdullah Ocalan, the jailed founder of the PKK, called for the group to disarm and dissolve to achieve peace with Turkey. His letter, delivered at a conference in Istanbul, emphasizes the need for a democratic society. Political reactions suggest newfound optimism for dialogue, particularly following an invitation from a Turkish lawmaker for Ocalan to speak in Parliament.
Abdullah Ocalan, the imprisoned founder of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), has issued a letter calling for the group to disarm and dissolve to facilitate peace with Turkey. In his message, he stated, “I am making a call for the laying down of arms, and I take on the historical responsibility of this call… all groups must lay their arms and the PKK must dissolve itself.” Ocalan advocates for peace and a democratic society in his communication, which was presented at a conference in Istanbul.
At this conference, the letter was read with enthusiasm, signaling a potential turning point in the long-standing conflict between Turkey and the PKK. Siri Sureyya Onder of the People’s Equality and Democracy party characterized the moment as a “breaking point of history and it is a positive one.” This positive development follows political gestures from Turkish lawmaker Devlet Bahceli, who has invited Ocalan to Parliament, suggesting a willingness for dialogue and solutions to longstanding tensions.
There is a significant regional context to these developments, particularly concerning the PKK-affiliated People’s Protection Units (YPG) in Syria, which collaborates with the United States against ISIS. YPG spokesman Siyamend Ali expressed optimism regarding Ocalan’s message, stating, “The message will for sure have significant effects… we hope that this message will be a guide for resolving the existing crises, especially in Syria.”
It is important to note that the PKK is designated as a terrorist organization by both Turkey and the United States. Furthermore, a report from the United States Director of National Intelligence indicated that the PKK has been responsible for numerous terrorist attacks that have resulted in civilian casualties. Ocalan’s call to disarm and dissolve may present an opportunity for peace following decades of violent conflict.
In conclusion, Abdullah Ocalan’s call for the PKK to disarm and dissolve represents a critical moment in the ongoing struggle for peace between the PKK and Turkey. Responses from political figures and affiliated groups suggest a cautious optimism for dialogue and reconciliation. As both Turkey and the PKK navigate the complexities of this long-standing conflict, Ocalan’s message may pave the way for a significant shift toward a peaceful resolution.
Original Source: www.upi.com
