Kurdish separatist group PKK began symbolically laying down weapons in northern Iraq, marking a significant step in a decades-long peace process. The disarmament, urged by imprisoned PKK leader Abdullah Öcalan, is expected to be completed by September. The move, welcomed by Turkish officials, follows the PKK's May announcement to disband and renounce armed conflict. While a Turkish official acknowledged the initial step, he emphasized the process is far from complete. The disarmament is part of a five-phase peace plan aimed at long-term healing and reconciliation.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.