Thirty members of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) laid down their weapons in Iraqi Kurdistan on Friday. The symbolic event marked a key moment in the group’s shift from armed conflict to political engagement.
The PKK announced two months ago that it would end its decades-long insurgency against the Turkish state. This move is part of a broader effort to resolve one of the region’s most prolonged disputes.
With the PKK weakened and public support for armed resistance fading, Turkey’s peace proposal gave the group’s imprisoned founder, Abdullah Ocalan, a chance to promote political strategy over violence.
The disarmament effort also strengthens President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s standing. He may become the first Turkish leader to bring a lasting end to a conflict that has claimed over 40,000 lives and caused widespread instability.
Ceremony takes place at historic site
The disarmament ceremony took place near the ancient Casene cave. Thirty PKK fighters, both men and women, appeared on stage in khaki uniforms with uncovered faces. Around 300 people gathered to witness the event, according to an AFP journalist on site.
One by one, the fighters stepped forward to place their weapons in a cauldron with a ceremonial fire. Most surrendered rifles, but one carried a machine gun and another, a rocket-propelled grenade launcher.
The crowd responded with cheers, and some were visibly moved. After the event, the fighters returned to the mountains, a PKK commander confirmed.
Ocalan’s release viewed as crucial to peace
PKK commander Bese Hozat spoke after the ceremony. She stressed that progress depends on releasing Abdullah Ocalan, also known as “Apo”, who has been in solitary confinement since 1999.
“For the process to move forward, legal guarantees must secure Leader Apo’s release,” she said. “He needs the freedom to lead and guide this effort. Without that, success is unlikely.”
President Erdogan called the ceremony a “significant step” towards a “terror-free Turkey” and expressed hope for lasting peace in the region.
A senior Turkish official described the event as a “concrete and welcome” milestone. He said it marked the beginning of a five-step plan. Future steps include reintegrating former fighters into society, creating legal pathways for their return, and ensuring justice and long-term stability.
