The Kurdish Communities Union (KCK), a coalition representing various Kurdish political organisations, released a statement on Sunday condemning the Turkish government’s continued attacks on Kurdish regions, particularly in Syria and Iraq. The statement accuses Turkey of genocidal practices, resulting in the deaths of many Kurds in recent weeks.
The KCK’s condemnation comes in the wake of increased attacks since the powers of Turkey’s ruling coalition, the Justice and Development Party (AKP)-Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), were extended in the country’s May presidential elections. The statement highlights recent drone attacks in Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI), in which several people were killed, and criticises the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and Iraqi state for failing to respond to the incidents.
While strongly criticising the lack of reaction from states and international organisations, the KCK expressed condolences to the families of those killed, referred to as martyrs, and to the Kurdish people. The statement argues that Turkey’s actions are not confined to borders and are driven by hostility against the Kurds.
The statement further accuses Kurdish organisations and parties in Iraqi Kurdistan, as well as the KRG, of being complicit in the situation by failing to act or take a stand. It emphasises that the lack of reaction equates to partnership in Turkey’s attacks.
The KCK also criticises foreign states and international organisations for their continued political and economic relations with Turkey, despite its attacks on Kurdish regions. It calls on these entities to recognise the existence and values of the Kurdish people and to take a stand against Turkey’s actions.
In the statement the KCK refutes claims that Turkey’s attacks solely target the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), asserting that recent attacks demonstrate a broader targeting of all Kurds. It calls on various groups, including intellectuals and artists, to take a strong stand and exert political pressure on those responsible.
The statement concludes with an urgent appeal to the Kurdish people and their international supporters to protest against the silence of states and international institutions, declaring it unacceptable.
