Türkiye Demands Explanation from Kurdish Regional Government Affiliate Following Criticism of Nationalist Leader
ŞIRNAK, Türkiye – Türkiye’s Foreign Ministry has formally requested an explanation from the Kurdistan democratic Party (KDP) leadership after a statement attributed to a KDP-affiliated source reportedly targeted Devlet Bahçeli, leader of the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP). Ankara is demanding immediate accountability for those responsible for the contentious remarks, which officials characterized as damaging to bilateral relations.
The diplomatic dispute arises amid heightened scrutiny following a recent visit by KDP President Masoud Barzani to Türkiye’s southeastern Şırnak province. Barzani’s appearances, notably in the district of Cizre, garnered meaningful political and public attention, and now, a statement linked to the KDP has triggered a formal protest from Ankara. The incident underscores the delicate balance Türkiye maintains wiht Kurdish political actors, even as it navigates regional security concerns and domestic political dynamics.
Barzani’s visit included attendance at the “4th International Melaye Ciziri Symposium,” co-hosted by the Şırnak Governor’s Office, Şırnak University, and the Cizre District Governor’s Office. He also paid respects at Cizre Asri Cemetery,visiting the mausoleum of Mem û Zin and the grave of kurdish politician Şerafettin Elçi.
Accompanying Barzani were Şırnak Governor Birol Ekici, DEM Party spokesperson Ayşegül Doğan, DEM Party Şırnak deputies Mehmet Zeki Irmez and Nevroz Uysal Aslan, Presidential Chief Adviser Gülşen Orhan, Cizre District Governor Ahmet Vezir Baycar, and Şırnak Mayor Mehmet Yarka.
The Foreign Ministry emphasized the incompatibility of the alleged statement with the principles of friendly relations and mutual respect, urging the KDP to promptly clarify its origin and ensure those responsible are held accountable. Simultaneously, Türkiye’s Interior Ministry announced the launch of an examination into the security detail accompanying Barzani during his visit. The unfolding situation signals a potential strain in Türkiye’s relationship with the KDP, a key regional player in Iraqi Kurdistan.
