Türkiye reaffirms protection of Turkish Cypriots amid Greek Cypriot arms purchase

Türkiye has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Turkish Cypriots following reports that the Greek Cypriot Administration purchased an Israeli Barak MX air defence system.

The Turkish Defence Ministry spokesperson Zeki Akturk said that such arms acquisitions by the Greek administration, aimed at undermining peace and stability on the island, could have dangerous consequences, Caliber.Az reports.

"We are closely following media reports that the Greek Cypriot Administration has purchased an air defence system from Israel," a ministry spokesperson said.

Akturk noted that the Greek administration's continued arms purchases, aimed at undermining peace and stability on the island, could have dangerous consequences.

"Any attempts to upset the balance on the island are closely monitored, and all necessary measures are taken to ensure security and peace in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). Türkiye today, as yesterday, supports the TRNC. Turkish Cypriots also enjoy Türkiye's protection," the Rear Admiral added.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974, following a Turkish military intervention after a Greek-backed coup. The island is split between the internationally recognised Republic of Cyprus (Greek Cypriots) in the south and the TRNC in the north, recognised only by Türkiye. Tensions persist over military buildups and territorial disputes, with Türkiye opposing actions that disrupt the balance on the island.

By Khagan Isayev