In a significant development for the Middle East peace process, Kurdish leaders and Turkish officials have welcomed the Kurdistan Workers’ Party’s (PKK) landmark decision to dissolve and disarm following Abdullah Ocalan’s call. This historic move, announced Monday, May 12, 2025, marks the potential end of decades of armed conflict and opens a new diplomatic chapter for Kurdish-Turkish relations.
PUK President Calls Decision a Historic Milestone
Bafel Talabani, President of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), has strongly endorsed the PKK’s decision to follow Abdullah Ocalan’s call for self-dissolution and disarmament. Talabani described the move as “a historic milestone” and pledged that the PUK “remains firmly committed to the success of the peace process.”
In his statement, Talabani emphasized that while disarmament is vital, it must be accompanied by implementing all steps within the broader peace process. He highlighted that his approach follows the legacy of President Mam Jalal, who pioneered peace initiatives in the region.
“Lasting stability in the Middle East can only be achieved through a peaceful resolution of the Kurdish issue,” Talabani stated, expressing hope that the peace process would usher in a new era of cooperation throughout Kurdistan.
Kurdistan Region President Sees Turning Point
Nechirvan Barzani, President of the Kurdistan Region, published a message on his official Facebook account welcoming the PKK’s decision as “decisive” and “opening a new page in the region.”
Barzani noted that this step demonstrates political maturity and creates opportunities for genuine dialogue that can strengthen coexistence and stability across Turkey and the region. He emphasized that “now is the time” for all concerned parties to respond with other positive and necessary measures.
“This creates an appropriate foundation for permanent and comprehensive peace, ending decades of violence and suffering,” Barzani stated. He praised Turkish President Erdogan’s role in supporting the process while reaffirming Kurdistan Region’s readiness to provide any assistance needed for the success of this “historic opportunity.”
Turkish Foreign Minister Emphasizes Implementation
Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan described the PKK’s decision to end its activities and armed struggle as “historic and important.” Fidan stated that his government would closely monitor the dissolution process.
“The PKK’s decision will be beneficial for everyone’s future,” Fidan remarked, adding that “the organization must take several practical steps following this decision.” The minister’s comments suggest Turkey views the announcement positively but expects concrete actions to follow.
Former HDP Co-Chair Calls for Unity from Prison
Selahattin Demirtaş, former co-chair of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP), spoke from Edirne Prison during a meeting with Pervin Buldan, calling the PKK’s move “historic.”
Demirtaş emphasized that “now is the time for everyone to work together to make the peace process in Turkey successful.” He urged devoted work toward peace, democracy, and prosperity in Turkey, concluding his message with wishes of good fortune for all.
