Turkish President Erdoğan Announces New Efforts for a Terror-Free…

President Erdoğan declared a new phase in achieving a “terror-free Turkey” after PKK leader Abdullah Öcalan’s call for disarmament. This development could end a decades-long conflict, drawing support from the U.S. and EU, with Erdoğan pledging to monitor the situation closely. The impact on various Kurdish groups, particularly the YPG and SDF, remains uncertain as tensions continue to exist.

On February 28, Turkish President Tayyip Erdoğan announced a new phase in efforts to establish a “terror-free Turkey” following a disarmament call from Abdullah Öcalan, the imprisoned leader of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK). Öcalan’s call signals a potential end to a conflict that has lasted for 40 years, which has significant political and security implications for the region. Erdoğan stated, “The efforts for a terror-free Turkey… have entered a new phase as of yesterday,” highlighting the opportunity for progress against terrorism.

Öcalan’s appeal came after a previous suggestion from Erdoğan’s ultra-nationalist ally last October, receiving support from the U.S., EU, and neighboring countries, including Iraq and Iran. Erdoğan indicated that Turkey would closely monitor the disarmament process and would be vigilant against any provocations that may arise. He emphasized, “We will show the utmost caution against any provocation that may arise during this process and take all necessary measures.”

While the PKK has not yet responded to the disarmament call, the Syrian Kurdish YPG, which Turkey associates with the PKK, declared that Öcalan’s message does not apply to them. AK Party spokesperson Ömer Celik stated that all Kurdish forces in Iraq and Syria, including the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), must disarm. He asserted, “Regardless of what name it uses, the terrorist organization must lay down its weapons and disarm itself.”

Additionally, Turkey’s pro-Kurdish DEM Party urged Erdoğan’s administration to promptly pursue democratization efforts, emphasizing that the government’s response is crucial moving forward. The PKK has been waging an insurgency against Turkey since 1984, primarily operating from bases in northern Iraq, and is deemed a terrorist organization by Turkey, the United States, and the EU. The conflict has resulted in over 40,000 fatalities.

President Erdoğan’s announcement marks a potentially transformative moment in Turkey’s long-standing conflict with the PKK, emphasizing disarmament as a critical step towards peace. With support from international allies, the process could reshape regional dynamics, although challenges remain, particularly concerning the response of various Kurdish groups. The ongoing situation demands careful monitoring to ensure progress is made towards a peaceful resolution and democracy.

Original Source: www.duvarenglish.com