Erdogan Declares New Era After PKK Begins Disarmament in Iraq

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced on Saturday that a "new chapter" has begun for Turkey, following the symbolic disarmament of PKK fighters in Iraq—a historic move marking a potential end to four decades of conflict.

Speaking at an advisory meeting of the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) in Ankara, Erdogan said:

"As of yesterday, the plague of terrorism we have fought for 41 years has entered the phase of disappearance."

The disarmament ceremony, held near Sulaymaniyah in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, signals the PKK’s transition from armed rebellion to political engagement. The group announced its dissolution on May 12, 2025, in response to a call from its imprisoned leader Abdullah Öcalan.

Erdogan emphasized the role of regional developments in Syria and Iraq in shaping this outcome.

"We are working with the Syrian government and our international partners. Terrorism will soon be eradicated there as well," he stated.

He added that this was not just a Turkish issue, but also one concerning Kurds in Iraq and Syria, saying:

"We are discussing this stage with them and they are very pleased."

The president concluded:

"This is a victory not only for the Turks but also for the Kurds, Arabs, and all 86 million citizens of our nation."

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