Recently, the Kurdish leader is said to have, for the first time in many years, been granted permission to meet with a delegation from the Democratic Emancipation Movement (DEM). According to various sources, extensive discussions were held about the current political situation and the need to find a peaceful solution.
In southeastern Turkey, Kurds have been fighting for autonomy for decades. Kurdish groups are also active in northern Iraq and Syria, each with their own organizations and separate political and military leaders. The Turkish PKK is just one of them. The region has had an autonomous Kurdish region for over 20 years involving some international cooperation, but without official recognition. Despite many promises, rapprochements, and commitments, there is still hardly any collective Kurdish action.
The alleged talks with the DEM delegation reportedly revealed cautious optimism on both sides about the feasibility of a renewed peace process. It is also emphasized that the role of the Kurdish community both at home and abroad is crucial for lasting success.
Several regional news outlets mention a new tone in Öcalan’s statements. He is optimistic about the possibility of ending the decades-long conflict between the PKK and the Turkish state. The Turkish government has not reported anything about the meeting and discussions.
According to reporting from a Kurdish news agency in Switzerland, Öcalan sees room for a “new phase of rapprochement” between the PKK and Ankara. The article stresses that for the first time in a long time he has expressed himself so openly about dialogue. No concrete details about possible conditions were given. Öcalan's willingness reportedly also depends on how seriously the Ankara government approaches the talks.
In a news article by Hawar News, more attention is given to what Öcalan allegedly said about a “solution-oriented policy” of the Turkish government. It was revealed that despite his isolated detention, he still wants to remain closely involved in possible decision-making.
The English-language Turkish newspaper Daily Sabah mainly focuses on the support Öcalan appears to express for a “terror-free Türkiye” approach. He is said to have suggested that he is not only ready to end the armed conflict but also wants to consider broader societal reconciliation. According to him, this reconciliation can only succeed if ‘other stakeholders’ (?) also make efforts to reduce tensions between Kurds and the Turkish government.
The news site Kurdistan24 largely concurs and also underlines Öcalan’s “readiness” for peace negotiations. According to this pro-Kurdish website, formal talks could only begin if the Turkish government provides guarantees for the safety of all parties involved.
Although the Turkish authorities have so far remained cautious, there are signs that future dialogue is not excluded. The combination of Öcalan’s statements and the support he reportedly wants to give to a “peace initiative” suggests that there could be an opening move from İmralı. How the Erdogan government will respond remains uncertain for now.