The Kurdistan Free Life Party (PJAK) issued a written statement on the 38th anniversary of the Halabja Massacre.
The PJAK statement reads as follows:
“March 16 marks the anniversary of the massacre carried out against our people in Halabja. The 20th century became the bloodiest century in Kurdish history due to many tragedies, including the Halabja and Anfal massacres committed by the Iraqi Baath regime. Humanity also stained its history by remaining silent in the face of these crimes. On the 38th anniversary of the Halabja Massacre, we condemn this crime against humanity and respectfully commemorate our martyrs. The Kurdish people will never forget these crimes and will continue their struggle until they achieve freedom.
On March 16, 1988, the fascist and anti-human Baath regime of Iraq carried out a massacre against our people in Halabja, resulting in the martyrdom of around 5,000 people. This was part of the plans of enemies of the Kurds to destroy our people. Of course, such a large-scale massacre and such a grave crime could not have been carried out without the support of certain hegemonic states. Later, documents were made public regarding the cooperation of countries that created the Kurdish question and assisted ruling regimes in Kurdistan in the destruction of the Kurds.
This dark stain of the global system, carried out with the consent of ruling powers, is the result of oppression and persecution arising from international agreements that have continued for more than a century. One of these is the Treaty of Lausanne. The consequences of this treaty and the massacres committed against our people continue to this day. As long as the Kurdish question remains unresolved and a global will for its solution is not demonstrated, the risk of another Halabja will not disappear.
‘The freedom movement prevented dozens of massacres like Halabja’
Looking at the events that took place this year in Rojava Kurdistan and the ongoing war in Iran, it is clear that Kurdistan remains at the center of a brutal war imposed on our people. Although the Kurdish freedom movement has recognized these plans and, through its stance and policies, has prevented dozens of massacres like Halabja, the enemy still seeks to subjugate our country and carry out massacres similar to Halabja.
At a time when the third world war could reach its peak, the danger of continued denial and genocidal policies against the Kurdish people in other parts of Kurdistan still exists. Kurdistan is facing indiscriminate attacks from enemies who seek to occupy it once again. If the Kurds resist and struggle, their enemies will respond with massacres and genocidal strategies and implement plans against them.
Continuation of the Kurdish question means continuation of crises across the Middle East
Undoubtedly, as long as there is no legitimate place and status for the Kurds in this world, crises will continue. Turning the Kurdish question into a complex and chaotic situation will not be a way for enemies to realize their fascist ambitions. Today, the continuation of the Kurdish question divided into four parts means the continuation of crises across the Middle East. Even while attempts are made to redesign the region, the system cannot succeed without defining an honorable place for the Kurds. It will not find peace and stability within itself.
Pressure against Kurds in Iran and Rojhilat will not be allowed
If they intend to keep the Kurds under oppression for another century, the strategies of genocide, subjugation, and massacre have already been defeated thanks to the struggle of our people and the freedom movement. There is no path left for new Saddams to remain in power, and the continuation of pressure against Kurds in Iran and Rojhilat will not be allowed. The tolerance of the world toward all forms of oppression against our people has reached its breaking point. For societies to democratize and live in peace and stability, there is no alternative but to recognize the democratic and freedom-seeking rights of the Kurds. In this context, Leader Apo’s (Abdullah Öcalan’s) call for a ceasefire and a democratic solution to the Kurdish question is a historic opportunity that can bring the region to the shores of security and peace and prevent the emergence of multiple Halabjas and Gazas.
Recognition of all Kurdish rights is in the interest of all peoples and countries
From women’s freedom to people’s freedom, there is only one path: struggle against the regional system that governs Kurdistan and sees massacres like Halabja as a solution to problems. Since the Kurds have reached a level of leadership through struggle, the recognition of all Kurdish rights is in the interest of all peoples and countries in the region, especially Iran.
PJAK condemns the Halabja Massacre and commemorates the victims. Standing with the martyrs of Halabja, supporting their legitimate demands, and continuing the struggle to achieve Kurdish rights is the path to freedom and democracy. This demand has been built on the foundation of struggle, and this path is the way to prevent massacres. The participation of our people in the fields of struggle and the unity of parties and forces are the best way to secure the struggle and reach a free and democratic future. Our people and our guerrilla forces can continue on their path stronger than ever, and the leadership and freedom of Öcalan are the guarantee of this future. Freedom will inevitably prevail.”
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