Ankara: The Turkish Ministry of Defense has announced that it is implementing essential measures to safeguard the security and peace of Turkish Northern Cyprus. This action follows reports of Greek Cypriots in Southern Cyprus acquiring defense systems from Israel. The Ministry also highlighted that the global community can no longer disregard Israeli aggression in Gaza.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Turkish Defense Ministry Spokesperson Zeki Aktrk informed journalists in Ankara that the Ministry is attentively observing media reports concerning the acquisition of an air defense system by Greek Cyprus from Israel. He cautioned that the Greek Cypriot administration’s continued military enhancements and activities risking peace and stability on the island could have severe repercussions. Aktrk assured that any attempts to disrupt the island’s balance are being vigilantly watched, with all necessary actions being taken to maintain the security and peace of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.

Aktrk reiterated Turkey’s unwavering support for the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, emphasizing that Turkish Cypriots are under Turkey’s protection.

Addressing the situation in Gaza, the Turkish Defense Ministry spokesperson condemned the Israeli ground offensive on Gaza City, which began recently, for worsening the long-standing humanitarian crisis. Aktrk criticized Israel’s civilian-targeted attacks in Gaza and its provocative regional actions, asserting that they reveal an intention to destabilize the Middle East further.

He urged the international community to no longer turn a blind eye to Israel’s systematic aggression and acts of state terrorism and genocide in Gaza. Aktrk called for prompt, effective, and deterrent measures against Israel to restore regional peace and stability.

Regarding the Turkish Armed Forces’ presence in Syria, he stated that their deployment is justified under self-defense rights and international law, aimed at securing Turkey’s borders, combating terrorism, and preventing a terrorist corridor. Aktrk made it clear that withdrawing these forces is not an option until full border security is ensured and the terrorist threat is entirely eradicated.