Iranian Kurdish Group PJAK Rejects Proxy Status, Vows Independence in Conflict

The Kurdistan Free Life Party (PJAK), an armed militant group and political party operating in Iran's Kurdish region, has stated that it is not a proxy force for any external power. In an email interview, PJAK spokesperson Rivar Abdanan clarified the group's position amid ongoing conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran.

PJAK, which is aligned with the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) of Turkey, has long sought greater autonomy for Iran's Kurdish region. Following the US-Israel military action against Iran on February 28, speculation arose that Kurdish groups might join the war against the Islamic Republic. Abdanan said PJAK would only enter the war if the existence of the Kurdish people is threatened. He added that the primary cause of the current conflict lies in the Islamic Republic's repressive domestic policies and expansionist regional policies.

Abdanan emphasized that PJAK is primarily a political party seeking democratic change within a federal framework. He rejected the notion of Kurds as a mere military force, stating, 'We are not anyone’s proxy force.' The group aims to build a democratic, self-administered society among Kurds and work toward a democratic republic for all Iranians.

Regarding the US-Israel attacks, Abdanan said the issue cannot be reduced to a simple choice between encouraging or condemning war. He blamed the Islamic Republic for the bloodshed, citing its violence against Kurds and other Iranians. PJAK will not join any international coalition unless Kurdish political rights are clearly defined and guaranteed.

The group remains cautious, avoiding a prolonged war that could exhaust Kurdish resources. Instead, it seeks to preserve its political potential for a future democratic transition in Iran.