On July 11th, the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) held a symbolic ceremony marking the beginning of its disarmament process, during which several members publicly burned their weapons. This followed the group’s announcement nearly three months earlier of its intention to disband, and was spurred by a peace appeal issued by imprisoned PKK leader Abdullah Öcalan in late February. As part of this broader peace initiative, in March, the PKK declared a unilateral ceasefire.

Data from July and August shows a notable decrease in Turkish bombardments and airstrikes, suggesting that elements of the peace process are contributing to a de-escalation of violence. However, Turkish military forces have not withdrawn from contested regions. Instead, they continue to construct new military bases, impose restrictions on civilian movement, and prevent displaced families from returning to their lands, further undermining local livelihoods.

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