Turkish Defense Ministry clarifies Iraq memorandum, Cyprus troop monitoring

The Ministry of National Defense addressed queries about the recent security memorandum signed with Iraq after the weekly briefing.

“The media reports about the agreement text are incorrect. The actual document, titled ‘Memorandum of Understanding on Military, Security Cooperation, and CounterTerrorism,'” the ministry said.

The ministry also detailed the pointers covered by the document which are as follows:

• Training for military and law enforcement personnel
• Joint efforts against terrorist organizations
• Collaborative border security
• Tackling irregular migration and border breaches
• Combatting smuggling and organized crime
• Sharing intelligence information
• Cooperation in military defense

Additionally, a Joint Security Coordination Center will be set up in Baghdad, co-managed by a general from Türkiye and another from Iraq.

This center will house both military and civilian personnel, with the specifics of staffing and operational procedures to be determined through further technical discussions.

Moreover, a Joint Training and Cooperation Center will be established at the Bashika Base of the Iraqi Army, focusing on training, information sharing, and experience exchange.

The main goal of the memorandum is to neutralize threats from terrorist or banned groups to the sovereignty, security, and regional stability of both nations.

US, UK troop deployment in Greek Cyprus

In response to concerns about the potential impact of recent U.S. and U.K. troop deployments in Greek Cyprus on the security of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), Ministry sources stated: “We are closely monitoring recent activities and ongoing operations by the Greek Cypriot Administration in Cyprus. We are taking all necessary precautions against any threats to TRNC’s security. Regardless of any military buildup, we are vigilant and currently, there is no indication of any threat or negative impact on TRNC security.”