Turkey has issued strong warnings over escalating tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean, including the conflict involving Iran, as military activity intensifies around Cyprus.
Speaking on Tuesday, Justice and Development (AKP) spokesman Omer Celik criticised regional and international actors, arguing that “some European Union countries announce that they will send warships or strengthen their presence in the region, however, the European Union has already proven its weakness in assessing and formulating a security strategy.”
He urged restraint, stating that “under the current tensions, actions that may increase instability should be avoided,” while warning that Turkey, “as a guarantor power, has the ability to act decisively to protect the sovereign rights and interests” of occupied Cyprus in the north.
Addressing the Iran conflict, Celik condemned attacks on the country as “unjust and illegal,” saying “a state cannot resort to murderous methods” and warning Israel’s actions “will lead to greater disasters.”
He stressed diplomacy, adding: “you cannot bomb a country because you don’t like its regime,” and cautioned that any strike on Turkish territory would have “serious consequences.”
The remarks come amid a growing military build-up, with Turkey deploying six F-16s, drones and missile systems in the north, while Greece has also increased its presence.
Source: Cyprus Mail.
