YRK: We abide by the ceasefire but reserve the right to self-defense

In Marivan, the YRK has engaged in a skirmish with Iranian paramilitaries. YRK said they want to avoid military clashes but reserve the right to self-defense.

According to the Eastern Kurdistan Defense Units (YRK), the Iranian army carried out an operation in April, and a skirmish with state paramilitaries took place in Marivan. YRK said they want to avoid military confrontations but reserve the right to self-defense in the event of attacks.

A statement published by YRK on Sunday said:

"Forces of the colonialist Iranian occupying state have attacked our guerrilla units with drones and helicopters and conducted operations. On April 18, an operation backed by helicopters took place in the region of Diwandere. During the operation, the Iranian army again deployed troops on Hill Diharwende which had been captured by the Iranian army last year and abandoned during the winter. Our units have shown great circumspection to avoid any fighting.

On April 21, a group of state paramilitaries ambushed our forces in the vicinity of the village of Akcha near Marivan. When our forces noticed the ambush, a battle ensued in which individuals responsible for the deaths of Zilan Pepule, Tolhildan, Agir Riha and dozens of other fighters and patriotic civilians were punished. Among those killed were Osman Cihani, Nasir and a person whose name is not known. Our forces suffered no casualties and retreated to their positions safely.

Despite this aggression, our guerrilla units are trying to avoid skirmishes and are being very prudent with the ceasefire. As long as state forces and paramilitaries do not attack the guerrillas, the ceasefire will continue. Otherwise, we will give the necessary response in self-defense."