Tatar highlighted that despite multiple warnings from both himself and Turkey, the Greek Cypriot administration continues to escalate tensions. He criticised their increasing military activities and the use of civilian ports for military purposes, further inflaming regional conflict.
Recent developments, including the docking of a US aircraft carrier in Limassol, have drawn significant criticism from both Turkish Cypriots and Greek Cypriots. Public opinion polls show widespread disapproval among Greek Cypriots regarding their leader’s actions, which many feel have compromised the island’s neutrality.
Tatar emphasised that the Greek Cypriot Administration’s jurisdiction is limited to Southern Cyprus, as defined by historical agreements, and does not extend to affecting the security of the Turkish Cypriot community. He urged the international community to recognise this limitation and not treat Greek Cypriot actions as representative of the entire island.
In his statement, Tatar called for global solidarity against oppression and support for ceasefire efforts. He lamented the global community’s passive stance on the crimes against humanity occurring in the region and urged for decisive action to halt the violence and support peace efforts, reflecting on the historical suffering endured by his own people.
In a later report published last week, Kibris Postasi wrote that the Turkish Ministry of National Defence, made a statement to Turkish daily ‘Milliyet’ regarding the deployment of troops by the US and the UK to Southern Cyprus.
It was stated that the recent increase in activity in Cyprus and the ongoing activities in Southern Cyprus were being followed meticulously. It was emphasised that the necessary measures were being taken against any threat that could be directed at the security of the TRNC, and the following statements were made: “No matter what buildup anyone makes, we are following all developments closely. There is no problem or negative situation in terms of the security of the TRNC at the moment”.
