PJAK claims independence following PKK dissolution discussions

PJAK spokesperson Rivar Abdanan has addressed the potential impact of the PKK/KCK dissolution on the group’s future. Abdanan stated that there is no “direct connection” between the dissolution of the PKK and PJAK’s activities, asserting that PJAK remains an independent Kurdish political entity operating in Iran.

While acknowledging that PJAK is ideologically aligned with the philosophy of Abdullah Öcalan, Abdanan rejected claims that the group is merely an Iranian branch or extension of the PKK. He emphasized that PJAK makes its own political and organizational decisions through its own mechanisms.

Addressing speculation regarding whether PKK members might join PJAK to avoid returning to Turkey, Abdanan denied such plans exist. He argued that if a successful political process occurs in Turkey, PKK members should participate in political life there. Abdanan noted that PJAK’s future will be determined by political developments within Iran and expressed openness to a democratic process in the country.