A specific reference to Cyprus and the self-declared “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC)” was included in the communiqué issued by Turkey’s National Security Council, which convened on Thursday under the chairmanship of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

In a statement released immediately after the meeting, it was stressed that “Turkey, in its capacity as a guarantor state, is capable of and determined to take every measure within the framework of international law for the security, peace and prosperity of Turkish Cypriots.” In this context, the Council emphasised that “no fait accompli that would harm the rights and interests of the ‘TRNC’ and disturb the atmosphere of peace in the Eastern Mediterranean will be allowed.”

Full Statement

The National Security Council convened on 18 June 2026 under the chairmanship of the President of the Republic of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

During the meeting:

1. The Council was briefed on operations being conducted with commitment, determination and success, both domestically and abroad, against all threats and risks directed at our national unity, solidarity and existence, primarily terrorist organisations PKK/KCK-PYD/YPG, FETÖ and DAESH, as well as on recent international developments.

2. Efforts aimed at achieving the objectives of a “Terror-Free Turkey” and a “Terror-Free Region”, which are of critical importance for the future of our country and our region, were assessed. The strong determination to free both our nation and neighbouring peoples from the heavy burden of terrorism was reaffirmed.

3. Operations carried out as part of the fight against organised crime were reviewed, and it was underlined that measures aimed at fully safeguarding the peace and security of all our citizens, especially children and young people, will continue with determination.

4. It was emphasised that Turkey, in its capacity as a guarantor state, is capable of and determined to take every measure within the framework of international law for the security, peace and prosperity of Turkish Cypriots. It was noted that no fait accompli that would harm the rights and interests of the “TRNC” and disrupt the atmosphere of peace in the Eastern Mediterranean will be permitted.

5. Satisfaction was expressed regarding the agreement reached between Iran and the United States, and the importance of ensuring that the process remains on course was highlighted. It was stressed that Turkey will continue to actively contribute to efforts aimed at securing lasting peace and stability in the region.

6. The progress achieved towards establishing peace, stability and tranquillity in Syria was welcomed, and it was underlined that Turkey’s support for efforts to strengthen Syria’s unity, territorial integrity and development will continue.

7. It was noted that the aggressive actions of the Israeli administration, which continues ceasefire violations in Gaza, settler violence in the West Bank, attacks against the status of East Jerusalem and the Al-Aqsa Mosque, and infringements upon the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Lebanon, are negatively affecting efforts to establish peace and stability in the region.

The international community was called upon to adopt a principled stance towards the persistent conduct of the Israeli administration, which disregards universal human values and international law.

8. Turkey’s strong determination to continue the strategic cooperation established with Iraq across all fields, including with Iraq’s new government, was reaffirmed. Support for maintaining an environment of stability and security in Iraq was emphasised.

9. The current situation in the Russia–Ukraine war was reviewed, and the parties responsible for escalating and expanding the conflict, particularly in the Black Sea region, were urged to take immediate steps towards a just and lasting peace.

10. Developments across the African continent were assessed. It was noted that Turkey will continue supporting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of friendly and brotherly African countries, as well as efforts to establish peace, stability and prosperity throughout the continent.

11. Current developments aimed at strengthening peace, stability and cooperation in the South Caucasus were also reviewed.