PKK denies involvement in Turkey wildfires

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region — An umbrella group that includes the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) denied on Wednesday claims that the party was behind the recent wildfires in Turkey, saying they share the pain of Turkish people. 

On July 28, a forest fire broke out in the province of Antalya, popular with tourists, with more wildfires later reported in several other provinces. At least eight people have died in the fires. 

Pro-government media and people have accused the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) of starting the fires. Turkish authorities have not blamed anyone but there are reports that the wildfires may have been arson attacks.

Reports about the PKK involvement in the fires are a “lie,” the Kurdistan Communities Union (KCK) has said in a statement. 

“Reports that the forest fires were set by Kurds and the PKK are a complete lie and are an invention in the context of special warfare. With the help of these lies, an attempt is being made to conceal the government’s unecological measures and the crimes associated with this policy,” it said.

According to the Turkish Presidency’s Directorate of Communications, “167 of the 183 forest fires that have broken out in our country between July 28-August 04 2021 are under control through the mobilisation of all the means of our state.”

“The weather is extremely hot and dry. This helps the fires to start. A smallest mistake from us can lead to catastrophe,” Turkish climatologist Levent Kurnaz tweeted on July 30.

The KCK said the wildfires are a “catastrophe not only for the countries directly affected, but for all humanity and all other living beings.”

“As a people that experiences this pain the most, we wish the current situation will be overcome soon for the people of Turkey. We share their pain and sorrow.”

The PKK is an armed group fighting for the increased rights of Kurds in Turkey. It has previously said that it only targets government officials and military personnel, as well those aiding the government.