Turkey’s Parliament Deputy Speaker, Sırrı Süreyya Önder, has called for renewed efforts towards peace and dialogue, emphasising the need to overcome isolation in addressing the Kurdish question. Speaking at the start of the Turkish Grand National Assembly’s session, Önder referenced Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) leader Devlet Bahçeli’s recent handshake with officials from the pro-Kurdish Peoples’ Equality and Democracy (DEM) Party.
“As someone who has previously taken responsibility in the peace process, I wish to share a few words on the importance of peace,” Önder said. He used the allegory of a “well frog” – a creature whose worldview is limited to the confines of its well – to describe Turkey’s current political landscape.
“The frog asks about the ocean but cannot comprehend its vastness, as its perspective is confined by the well. Similarly, Turkey is trapped in a well of isolation,” he said, before adding, “It’s not the well that’s deep, it’s the rope that’s short.”
Önder extended personal thanks to President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Bahçeli, and others involved in the dialogue surrounding Turkey’s historical conflict. “As someone who values honour more than the price I’ve paid, I express my gratitude to all those working for peace,” he added.
“Speaking isn’t about hearing your own ideas echoed back,” Önder warned, concluding, “An open hand symbolises trust – it shows that there’s nothing harmful within.” He thanked those willing to contribute to the peace process and hoped history would recognise their efforts.
Önder’s remarks come as Turkey continues to grapple with the long-standing Kurdish issue, which has shaped domestic and regional politics for decades.
