Erdogan declares victory for Türkiye following disarmament of PKK militants.
Erdogan Hails End of “47-Year Curse” as PKK Fighters Lay Down Arms
In a significant moment for Türkiye, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced the symbolic end of a decades-long battle against terrorism after PKK militants began disarming in northern Iraq.
“This marks a new beginning—a historic turning point,” Erdogan said on Saturday. “A 47-year plague of terrorism is coming to an end.”
On Friday, 30 PKK members reportedly destroyed their weapons near a cave in northern Iraq, an act Turkish officials see as a key step toward dismantling the group. The PKK is listed as a terrorist organization by Türkiye, the United States, and the European Union.
A New Chapter for Türkiye
Calling the moment one of national healing, Erdogan emphasized a shared victory for the country.
“This isn’t just a win for the government—it’s a victory for all 86 million citizens: Turks, Kurds, Arabs alike,” he said. “Today, the doors to a stronger and more unified Türkiye are opening.”
The president stressed that efforts to secure lasting peace will continue with legislative backing. “A parliamentary commission will address the legal needs of this process,” Erdogan added. “Together, we’ll overcome any challenge.”
Defending Unity and Sovereignty
Erdogan also reaffirmed his government’s unwavering commitment to national integrity and independence.
“We will not let anyone tarnish our honour or threaten our unity,” he declared. “Türkiye will not bow to any force that endangers our homeland or our peace.”
Framing the development as the dawn of a new era, Erdogan concluded: “This is the beginning of the Century of Türkiye—a future without terror.”
