Turkish security forces have successfully eliminated 48 PKK/YPG terrorists in northern Iraq and Syria over the past week, as announced by the National Defense Ministry spokesperson, Rear Adm. Zeki Akturk. With these recent operations, the total number of terrorists neutralized in the region since the beginning of the year has now reached 2,205. It is essential to note that when Turkish authorities use the term “neutralize,” it can mean that the terrorists either surrendered, were killed, or captured.
The PKK, recognized as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the United States, and the European Union, has been responsible for the loss of over 40,000 lives during its 40-year terror campaign in Turkey. The YPG is an offshoot of the PKK and operates in Syria. PKK terrorists often take refuge in northern Iraq to plan attacks in Turkey, while YPG/PKK militants in northern Syria aim to threaten the Turkish border and disrupt the peace efforts in the region.
In addition to the successful counterterrorism operations, Turkish security forces have also captured 149 individuals attempting to illegally cross the border last week, with 1,443 others prevented from doing so. Since the start of the year, authorities have apprehended 12,610 individuals attempting illegal crossings and stopped 87,755 from entering the country.
Regarding the procurement of Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets, Turkish security sources have confirmed that approval for the sale of these jets to Turkey has been granted by the consortium member countries. Germany has also approved a Temporary Sales Authority for the jets to expedite the procurement process. The Eurofighter jets, produced by Germany, Spain, Italy, and the UK, require all countries’ consent for any sale to proceed.
In response to inquiries about potential new ground operations in northern Syria following President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s recent statements, Turkish security sources emphasized Turkey’s right to conduct military actions in accordance with international law and the country’s legitimate self-defense needs. The sources stated that Turkey has taken necessary actions in the past and will continue to do so in the future to ensure national security and border protection.
As reports surface regarding possible US military bases in the Greek Cypriot administration of Southern Cyprus, Turkish authorities are closely monitoring any developments that could disrupt the balance and pose a threat to the security of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). Ankara remains committed to taking all necessary military and political measures to safeguard the TRNC’s rights, interests, and security against any attempt to establish foreign military bases on the island.
The island of Cyprus has been embroiled in a long-standing dispute between Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots, despite numerous diplomatic efforts to reach a comprehensive resolution. The history of ethnic attacks and tensions dates back to the 1960s, ultimately leading to Turkey’s military intervention in 1974 to protect Turkish Cypriots from persecution. The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) was established in 1983 as a result of these events.
Turkey remains a proponent of a two-state solution on the island of Cyprus, advocating for sovereign equality and equal international status for both Turkish Cypriots and Greek Cypriots. The country stands firm in supporting the rights and security of the TRNC amidst ongoing regional challenges and geopolitical developments.