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Turkey's Defense Ministry Makes Provocative Statement About Cyprus

Published January 8, 2026, 16:12
Turkey's Defense Ministry Makes Provocative Statement About Cyprus

Turkey's Ministry of Defense made a provocative statement on social media, coinciding with events held in the occupied territories of Cyprus. The statement refers to “atrocities” committed by “Greek Cypriot gangs” in Cyprus, reiterating the Turkish narrative of the 1974 events. The Turkish Ministry of Defense claims that the occupied territories are “sacred lands” and that the presence of the Turkish army is necessary to protect the Turkish Cypriot people. It also accuses the Greek organizations EOKA of terrorism and violence. The provocative statement was condemned by the Cypriot government, which characterized the Turkish Ministry of Defense’s statements as “distortion of history” and “an attempt to justify the Turkish invasion.” Cyprus calls on Turkey to respect international law and contribute to resolving the Cyprus issue through negotiations. This particular statement is part of a broader effort by Turkey to promote its own narrative of the Cyprus issue and undermine efforts for a fair and sustainable solution.