Türkiye’s 1974 intervention saved us from Gaza-like fate, says Turkish Cyprus envoy

It has been 50 years since then Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit launched the Cyprus Peace Operation on July 20, 1974, to prevent the oppression and persecution of the Turkish Cypriots by the Greeks and to establish peace on the island.

Commenting on the 50 years that have passed since the operation, Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) Ambassador to Ankara Ismet Korukoglu told Cumhuriyet, that without Türkiye’s intervention in 1974, Turkish Cypriots would have faced a fate similar to Gaza.

‘No Turkish Cypriots left on island’

Ambassador Korukoglu highlighted the transformation of the Republic of Cyprus, established in 1960, into a Greek Cypriot state by 1963. From 1963 to 1974, Turkish Cypriots were confined to just 3% of the island.

Korukoglu described these 11 years as extremely painful for Turkish Cypriots but also as the beginning of their struggle for statehood, culminating in the establishment of the TRNC.

If Türkiye had not intervened, there would be no Turkish Cypriots left on the island today. The 1974 Peace Operation was crucial for both Turkish and Greek Cypriots’ safety and led to the formation of the TRNC in 1983.

Ismet Korukoglu

Comparison to Gaza

Korukoglu emphasized the critical nature of Türkiye’s intervention for regional security in the Eastern Mediterranean. He drew parallels with the current situation in the Middle East, asserting that without Türkiye’s intervention, the situation in Cyprus could have mirrored Gaza’s plight.

Looking at the Middle East today, we understand the significance of Türkiye’s active guarantee and the 1974 Peace Operation. Without Türkiye’s intervention, we would not be in a different situation than Gaza.

Ismet Korukoglu

Call for equal recognition, rights

Addressing current issues, Korukoglu criticized the international community’s recognition of the Greek Cypriot administration as a state while considering the TRNC merely a “community.” He called for correcting this asymmetry, advocating for recognizing the TRNC’s sovereign equality and international status.

Ongoing challenges:

• International isolation: Turkish Cypriots face development barriers because of global isolation. They are barred from participating in international sports events, direct flights to the TRNC are prohibited, and political representation is hindered.
• Human rights violation: Korukoglu described this isolation as a violation of human rights, stressing the need for removal.

EU’s double standards

Korukoglu criticized the European Union for disregarding its criteria by admitting Greek Cyprus into the EU in 2004 without resolving the island’s dispute. He referenced the unfulfilled promise made by the EU post-Annan Plan to lift the isolation of Turkish Cypriots.

The EU’s decision to admit Greek Cyprus without resolving the conflict violated its own principles

Ismet Korukoglu

Progress with Azerbaijan

On a positive note, Korukoglu mentioned significant strides in relations with Azerbaijan over the past few years concerning recognizing the TRNC. He expressed optimism about further advancements with Azerbaijan and other countries when conditions are favorable.

We are confident that steps taken by Azerbaijan and other nations will yield positive outcomes in due course

Ismet Korukoglu