Iran may seek to regain regional influence through PKK terrorist group: Sources

Türkiye is closely monitoring Iran’s regional activities amid concerns that Tehran may attempt to regain its lost influence in the region by leveraging the PKK terrorist group, according to sources from the ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party) and government circles speaking to the Türkiye daily.

Iran’s strategic interests in Middle East

Government sources suggest Iran has historically used its influence in Syria to maintain dominance in the region. However, recent developments in Syria and Türkiye’s newly initiated counterterrorism strategies have disrupted Tehran’s plans.

“Türkiye is acting swiftly and decisively in this period, when regional maps are being redrawn. Iran has been attempting to secure its influence through Syria for years, but recent changes have undermined these efforts. Currently, Iran’s only remaining armed leverage in the region is the PKK. Tehran may seek to utilize the PKK and its Syrian affiliate, the PYD, to make strategic moves in Syria,” said an AK Party source.

‘Terror-free Türkiye’ initiative gains momentum

The initiative for a “Terror-Free Türkiye,” launched after statements from Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) leader Devlet Bahceli, continues with urgency.

Following a recent meeting between a delegation from the Peoples’ Equality Party (DEM Party) and terrorist organization PKK/YPG’s ringleader Abdullah Ocalan, both state officials and Ocalan himself are reportedly focused on preventing the process from being “infected” by external factors.

Sources suggest that during upcoming meetings with terrorist ringleader Ocalan, he may issue a direct call for disarmament and announce the dissolution of the organization himself.

Firm stance against terrorism

AK Party insiders emphasize that this new initiative represents a final opportunity for the PKK.

“Either they will disarm, or they will disappear entirely. There can be no simultaneous pursuit of both armed struggle and peace. During the previous peace process, the state showed considerable tolerance to prevent disruption, but the organization exploited that leniency. This time, there will be no compromises or tolerance,” a source stated.