Kurdistan Democratic Party (Iran)

The Kurdistan Democratic Party (Iran) (KDP-I), also known as the Democratic Party of Iranian Kurdistan (PDKI), is a Kurdish political party operating in Iran. Founded in 1945, it is one of the oldest Kurdish parties in the Middle East. The KDP-I advocates for greater political and cultural rights for Kurds in Iran, often including calls for autonomy or federalism within a democratic Iran.

Throughout its history, the KDP-I has engaged in both political and armed struggle against the Iranian government. Following the Iranian Revolution in 1979, the party launched an insurgency seeking greater Kurdish autonomy. This conflict lasted for several years and resulted in significant casualties.

The KDP-I is based in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, where it maintains training camps and political offices. Its leadership has historically been composed of prominent Kurdish figures. The party's support base is primarily among Kurds in northwestern Iran.

Over the years, the KDP-I has experienced internal divisions and leadership changes. Despite these challenges, it remains a significant political actor within Iranian Kurdistan and continues to advocate for Kurdish rights. The party's relationship with the Iranian government remains tense, with occasional clashes reported along the border region. The Iranian government considers the KDP-I a terrorist organization.