The process dubbed “Terror-Free Turkey” by the ruling alliance has reached a critical point. The PKK is expected to release its first disarmament footage in the coming days. With such symbolic images looming, both sides are warning of possible provocations, stressing the need to remain vigilant against attempts to derail the process.
More than 50 days have passed since the PKK's dissolution congress on May 12, at which it announced its decision to disarm. Government sources have only said that a series of meetings took place between security units—primarily the National Intelligence Organization (MİT)—and committees formed by the PKK. They confirmed preparations for disarmament but refrained from sharing any further details.
As time passed, reports emerged of deadlock or crisis in the process. Both sides denied such claims. Most recently, AKP spokesperson Ömer Çelik stated that the PKK’s disarmament process was progressing at its own pace and had reached a point where disarmament could take place within days.
FEAR OF PROVOCATIONS
On the same day as Çelik’s remarks, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan consulted privately with AKP lawmakers. Speaking on condition of anonymity, one participant said, “I saw the president as very hopeful and determined about a Terror-Free Turkey. He also appeared confident in the DEM Party’s stance. However, there is clear concern about possible provocations. He’s particularly sensitive about this.”
President Erdoğan shared these concerns with the public following a Cabinet meeting. He said, “We are aware there are those seeking to derail the process—not only within our country but also within the organization. It appears that certain elements are pursuing sabotage efforts. Our state is experienced enough not to fall for such traps, but that doesn’t mean we’ll tolerate provocations. We won’t show mercy; we will crush every aggressor one by one.”
A day after Erdoğan’s remarks, MHP Chair Devlet Bahçeli issued a similar warning during his party’s parliamentary group meeting. He emphasized that the PKK’s disarmament must be secured promptly, adding: “Extreme provocations that could trigger new clashes—ones no one could contain—must be met with the utmost caution.”
According to government sources, it would not be surprising if certain factions within the state and some groups within the PKK attempt to undermine the process. A senior AKP official explained: “Security forces have been engaged in a long-standing fight against the PKK. Now, the organization is dissolving and preparing to disarm. This requires a new political climate. It entails a paradigm shift in politics, and policies may change quickly to adapt. But state institutions may not be able to adapt at the same pace—or may resist it altogether. Some power centers within the state might even try to block this shift. We must move forward with caution, fully aware of these risks.”
DRONE ATTACK NOT OFFICIALLY ANNOUNCED
The Defense Ministry has not issued a statement, but these warnings may be linked to a reported drone attack on Turkish commandos in northern Iraq on June 26, 2025, which reportedly injured nine soldiers. Some say the attack was carried out by factions within the PKK opposed to peace. However, sources close to the organization argue it was a response to Turkish forces attacking PKK units preparing to disarm.
The ministry has not officially commented on the incident.
As both sides emphasize their vigilance against potential provocations by “peace opponents” within the PKK and the state, the countdown for disarmament has begun. Officials from both the AKP and DEM Party agree that while the disarmament process will take time, the initial footage expected in the coming days will carry enormous symbolic weight.
An AKP official pointed out that traumatic memories linger from the failed 2013–2015 peace process, saying, “To secure public support, a photo or footage showing that weapons have been surrendered is crucial. Without such images, no political action can be taken.” The planned parliamentary commission will also be more meaningful once those images are made public, the official added.
Members of the DEM Party have also emphasized the symbolic importance of the disarmament footage in persuading the public that Turkey is entering a new chapter. However, they have issued a note of caution. “The PKK’s disarmament is vital for Turkey’s future,” one DEM lawmaker said. “Framing this process in terms of victory or defeat is misguided. It should be presented to the public as part of a peace process that reinforces Turkish-Kurdish solidarity and avoids humiliating either side.”
WHAT’S NEXT?
The first concrete step showing the organization surrendering its weapons will be recorded and monitored by both state security sources and media close to the PKK, Turkey in Depth has learned. During the symbolic handover, journalists from select independent outlets are also expected to be allowed to witness and report on the process.
The political process is also expected to gain momentum alongside the first concrete step in the PKK’s disarmament. DEM Party figures Pervin Buldan and Mithat Sancar—members of the İmralı delegation—are set to meet President Erdoğan on July 9. This meeting, anticipated after the release of the disarmament footage, is expected to clarify the next steps in the process.
