Terrorist group PKK to disband: Three countries to oversee disarmament process

The dissolution process of the terrorist organization PKK is reportedly taking shape, with discussions centering on a disbandment congress to be held in either Iraq’s Erbil or Sulaymaniyah.

The disarmament process will be jointly monitored by Türkiye, Iraq, and Syria, according to sources cited by Türkiye daily.

PKK disbandment congress location under discussion

Talks between PKK ringleader Abdullah Ocalan and Turkish officials have led to considerations regarding the congress’s location and security measures.

Due to intensified operations in recent years, PKK terrorists have faced increased difficulties in movement. This has prompted demands from the group’s so-called leadership in Qandil and its European wing to ensure the safety of those attending the congress.

If the congress is held in Erbil or Sulaymaniyah, security arrangements are expected to be managed by Iraqi authorities.

Sources from Türkiye’s ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party) indicated that intelligence agencies of certain countries opposing the process might attempt to disrupt it.

Iraqi authorities have reportedly been urged to remain on high alert against such threats.

Disarmament to be overseen by Türkiye, Iraq, and Syria

Following Congress’s expected decision to dissolve the organization, a structured disarmament process will commence. The process, referred to as “monitoring and oversight,” will be carried out under the supervision of intelligence agencies from Türkiye, Iraq, and Syria.

During this phase, each weapon will be cataloged, with discussions taking place regarding the method and location of their surrender.

The final decision on the handling of these weapons will be made through a joint mechanism established by the three countries.

AK Party: Disarmament and disbandment only priorities

A proposal from the pro-Kurdish Peoples’ Equality and Democracy Party (DEM) to establish a parliamentary commission to oversee the process has not been received positively by the ruling AK Party.

Party sources emphasized that their sole focus is currently on disarmament and dissolution.

“There is no other agenda beyond disarmament and dissolution at this stage. These things happen step by step, with continuous monitoring. Every stage will be followed carefully, and decisions will be made based on the prevailing atmosphere.

First, all factions must lay down their arms, and the liquidation process must be completed. This will be permanent. Only then can further discussions take place,” an AK Party source told Türkiye daily.

Ocalan’s call reportedly covers all PKK factions

According to Peoples’ Equality and Democracy Party (DEM Party) representatives who have held discussions with AK Party officials, Ocalan’s call for dissolution extends to all factions of the PKK, including its wings in Europe, Iraq, Syria and Iran.

Although there are differing views within the DEM Party, high-ranking security officials reportedly believe there is no doubt that the directive applies to the entire organization, regardless of the name it operates under.

Objections within the PKK’s European wing

Concerns have been raised over resistance from within the terrorist group PKK’s European wing because of its heavy involvement in illicit drug trafficking.

Sources noted that the organization’s financial operations, particularly drug and arms smuggling, generate an estimated $40 billion, and factions benefiting from these activities might oppose the dissolution process.

“There are figures managing a $40 billion illegal drug and arms trade. Some within the organization may resist giving this up. There will be opposing voices. However, these voices are unlikely to be strong enough to alter the outcome. Everyone knows this is the last opportunity,” an AK Party source told Türkiye daily.