The security forces of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) in Sulaymaniyah have shut down several companies and organizations allegedly linked to the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), despite the PUK leadership's frequent portrayal as supporters of the PKK. The closures, which occurred on Tuesday, December 31, were confirmed by BasNews.

The simultaneous raids targeted multiple entities, including the organizations Newgar, Marziya, and RJAK, along with the company Gizngi Barbayan. While these groups claim to focus on activities such as artistic development, women’s empowerment, and media production, reports allege that they are affiliated with the PKK and serve its interests in the region.

One of the affected companies, Gizngi Barbayan, which produces content for PKK-affiliated Zhn TV, condemned the action in a statement released through PKK media. The company criticized the closures as “subordination to the decision of the Kurdistan invaders” and vowed to reopen its headquarters.

The PUK security forces and affiliated media outlets have not issued an official explanation for the closures. However, analysts believe the actions may indicate a covert agreement between the PUK and Turkey.

Earlier in December, PUK senior leader and Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani met with Turkish Ambassador to Iraq, Anıl Bora İnan, to discuss regional security issues. Observers suggest this meeting could be linked to the crackdown on PKK-linked entities in Sulaymaniyah.

The closures mark a significant development in the complex dynamics between the PUK, PKK, and regional powers, raising questions about the PUK's evolving stance on PKK-affiliated activities in the Kurdistan Region.