Turkey Awaits PKK’s Final Decision on Disarmament
Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has confirmed that Turkey is still waiting for an official declaration from the PKK terrorist group regarding its potential disarmament.
Although the group recently held a congress in northern Iraq, it stopped short of announcing a formal decision. Fidan noted that while the government is optimistic, a final response may take more time.
“We’re hopeful, but even if it doesn’t happen, it’s not the end of the world,” he said during a live interview.
Political Signals Behind the PKK Disarmament Initiative
The renewed push for peace follows a rare political overture earlier this year. Abdullah Ocalan, the jailed PKK leader, had responded to a call by Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) leader Devlet Bahçeli urging the group to dissolve itself.
Bahçeli’s symbolic handshake with lawmakers from the opposition DEM Party—a group often accused of PKK ties—marked a surprising move toward national reconciliation.
Fidan reiterated the government’s goal: “We must establish a political climate where weapons are abandoned, and dialogue becomes the only tool.”
Regional Peacebuilding: From Syria to Iraq
Turning to regional matters, Fidan outlined Turkey’s ongoing diplomatic efforts in Syria and Iraq.
He said Turkey is in contact with the new Syrian leadership and supports the country’s territorial unity. He also urged the West to lift sanctions, which continue to affect Syria’s reconstruction.
Regarding Iraq, Fidan welcomed the country’s improving stability. He referenced Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani’s visit to Turkey as a sign of stronger cooperation and economic focus.
Gaza Crisis and Diplomatic Talks with Israel
Fidan sharply condemned Israel’s blockade of Gaza, calling it “genocide” and emphasizing the humanitarian cost.
He revealed that Turkey recently held indirect talks with Israeli officials in Azerbaijan to reduce tensions. The discussions are part of broader coordination with Qatar and the UAE ahead of former U.S. President Donald Trump’s planned regional visit.
“We must speak with one voice to end the suffering in Gaza,” he urged.
Revitalizing U.S.-Turkey Relations
Fidan also addressed relations with the United States, particularly in light of Trump’s return to the international stage.
“Turkey and the U.S. must build exceptional ties,” he said, adding that both nations aim to deepen cooperation beyond military matters and into trade and technology.
According to Fidan, both sides are actively shaping this new agenda.
EU Membership Still Blocked by Political Resistance
When asked about Turkey’s long-standing bid to join the European Union, Fidan pointed to political resistance from France and Germany.
“These two nations are blocking our path for domestic political reasons,” he explained, noting that support from Balkan and Southern European countries remains strong.
He emphasized that Turkey continues to meet many EU standards but faces unfair opposition from key founding members.
Poisoning Plot Against the Foreign Minister
In a dramatic revelation, Fidan shared that he had been poisoned with arsenic and mercury in an apparent assassination attempt around five years ago.
Although he chose not to name those responsible, he commented, “Enemies are not just within; they exist everywhere.”
Fidan affirmed his continued dedication to public service despite the threat to his life.
