Ankara: The Kurdistan Workers' Party announced a ceasefire this Saturday morning in response to the call of its leader Abdullah Ocalan.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, a statement by the Executive Committee of the Workers' Party confirmed: "In response to the call of the leader of the Kurdistan Workers' Party, Abdullah Ocalan, a ceasefire is declared starting today." The statement further elaborated on Ocalan's call, titled "Call for Peace and Democratic Society," describing it as a guiding document for freedom and democracy. The statement emphasized that this move marks a significant moment in the historical process that began in Kurdistan and the Middle East.

The statement highlighted the importance of the call, noting that while making the appeal is significant, its successful implementation is even more critical. It underscored that the Kurdistan Workers' Party is committed to this appeal and will take necessary steps to fulfill its requirements.

The leadership structure and the Central Council of the Kurdistan Workers' Party are identified as the organizing force of the struggle. The party's history of commitment and resistance has led to significant achievements over the past century in Kurdistan. The statement declared that the party is entering a new phase of struggle, drawing from the strategic vision of Leader Apo and historical experiences to achieve its goals through a democratic political approach.

The statement stressed the importance of achieving peace and a democratic society, which involves ensuring democratic transformation in Turkey and the Middle East through a democratic resolution of the Kurdish issue. This requires creating conditions that allow for the freedom of Abdullah Ocalan physically, intellectually, and politically.

Abdullah Ocalan, who has been imprisoned since 1999, called on his party to disarm and dissolve itself on Friday. He urged all armed groups to lay down their arms. This appeal was made from his solitary confinement cell on Imrali Island. The call follows an offer of peace from Ankara to the 75-year-old Ocalan four months prior.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan responded to Ocalan's call, describing it as a "historic opportunity."