Within the framework of the “Call for Peace and Democratic Society” initiated by Kurdish Leader Abdullah Öcalan, the Kurdish Freedom Movement announced its decision to withdraw forces to the Medya Defense Areas as part of the second phase of the process. 

 

While each historic step has attracted attention, the state has yet to respond positively. Citizens supporting the peace process are urging the government to act without delay. In interviews in İzmir, residents expressed frustration over the lack of reciprocal steps from the state. 

 

Osman Yıldırım said the government’s statements remain rhetorical and emphasized collective responsibility. He added: “Will America do it? They won’t act in our interest. Europe won’t either. Everyone has their own interest. When the time comes, you must act in favor of your nation. Öcalan is surely aware of this withdrawal decision. This process is a major opportunity for the Kurds. If they follow their leader, they will secure their rights. The Kurdish role is indispensable in shaping the future of the Middle East.”

 

‘THE COUNTRY NEEDS PEACE’

 

Nüfusa Ataç noted that while Öcalan has taken a second step toward peace, the state has made no reciprocal move. “As long as the state uses the term ‘terror leader,’ peace cannot come to this country,” she said and added: “The country needs peace. The commission must go to İmralı. The isolation of Öcalan must end. Bahçeli invited the Leader to Parliament, yet isolation continues. We are not the old Kurds; we demand honorable peace. Öcalan, Demirtaş, and ill prisoners must be released. One side talks about peace while imprisoning people and bombing Rojava. We have no faith in this approach.”

 

‘FIRST THEY MUST SIT AT THE TABLE’

 

Mehmet Sait Acar emphasized that all hopes for peace depend on concrete steps, noting the need to stop the bloodshed. “We want peace, but no one is engaging. Only if the process happens will we be happy. But right now, there is no real process. How can there be peace when people remain in prison for decades, suffer from illnesses, and are not released? The PKK has disbanded, but Turkey isn’t listening. They must first sit at the table with Apo, and all political prisoners must be released. This is the only way to solve it,” he said.

 

‘WE ARE WAITING FOR ACTION’

 

 

Yusuf Tekin criticized political operations carried out without consulting the public during the peace process. 

 

Another citizen who they do not want to say their name called for Öcalan’s freedom and stressed that the government must take steps to advance the process. “He must be visited, just like anyone entering prison today can be visited. We expect action from our President,” the citizen said.