Baghdad, Iraq- Iraq’s National Security Advisor, Qasim al-Araji, has called for the withdrawal of both the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) and Turkish forces from Iraqi territory if Ankara and the PKK reach a peace agreement. Speaking to AFP on Wednesday, al-Araji reiterated Iraq’s firm stance on the issue, stating, “We do not want the PKK here, nor do we want the Turkish army. Iraq demands the withdrawal of all parties.” He emphasized that Turkey justifies its military presence in Iraq by citing PKK activities, but reassured Baghdad that Ankara has no territorial ambitions.
The ongoing Turkish-PKK conflict in northern Iraq has caused significant harm, displacing residents and disrupting economic activities. The conflict, which has lasted for decades, has led to widespread instability and hardship in the region.
In a potentially pivotal development, the PKK declared a ceasefire on Saturday in response to a call from its imprisoned leader, Abdullah Öcalan. The ceasefire, which follows over 40 years of armed conflict, is seen as a significant turning point. Since 1984, the violence has resulted in over 40,000 deaths, and many hope that this declaration could pave the way for lasting peace.
The ceasefire was welcomed internationally. The White House described the move as a “significant development,” signaling that it could contribute to regional stability and ease tensions between Turkey and its U.S.-backed Kurdish allies in northeastern Syria.
In Iraq’s Kurdistan Region, political leaders also voiced their support for the ceasefire. Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani urged the PKK to follow Öcalan’s appeal, advocating for a “peaceful and democratic struggle.” Prime Minister Masrour Barzani expressed his backing for the peace process in Turkey, while Bafel Talabani, leader of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), called the ceasefire a “significant step” toward Kurdish-Turkish coexistence.
This development marks a hopeful moment for both Iraq and the wider region, as the potential for peace between Turkey and the PKK could reduce regional tensions and improve stability.
