KKTC President Ersin Tatar appeared on the Sabah YouTube channel, where he addressed a range of pressing issues. His comments, particularly regarding the potential establishment of a Turkish military base in Northern Cyprus, stirred controversy in the South. Tatar’s bold statement that F-16 fighter jets from Adana could reach Cyprus in just five minutes caught the attention of the Greek Cypriot media, who interpreted his remarks as a veiled threat.
Tatar’s Provocative Statements
During the interview, Tatar was asked about the concerns surrounding the possibility of Turkey setting up a military base in Northern Cyprus, in response to which he delivered a striking response. He emphasized the strong ties between Turkey and Northern Cyprus, stating, “If there is a need for it, if the Turkish Armed Forces have identified such a necessity, we will act accordingly. However, we have an advantage; F-16s taking off from Adana can reach Cyprus in five minutes.”
Reaction from the Greek Cypriot Side
Tatar’s remarks immediately sparked a reaction from the Greek Cypriot community, with his comments dominating headlines in their media outlets. The Greek Cypriot press portrayed Tatar’s statement as a challenge and a form of intimidation ahead of informal talks in New York.
Headlines in Greek Cypriot media included:
– Reporter: Tatar Provokes Again: “Turkish F-16s from Adana to Cyprus in 5 Minutes”
– Alfanews: Ersin Tatar Issues Another Challenge Just Before the Informal Tripartite Talks in New York
– “F-16s from Adana to Cyprus in 5 Minutes”
– ANT1: Tatar Discusses the Possibility of Turkey Establishing a Military Base in Cyprus: “F-16s from Adana to Cyprus in 5 Minutes”
– Omegalive: Shortly Before the Tripartite Talks, Tatar Issues a Challenge: “F-16s from Adana in 5 Minutes” – Threatens with Turkey Establishing a Base
– Philenews: Tatar: Turkish F-16s from Adana to Cyprus in 5 Minutes
Social Media Reaction
The interview on the Sabah YouTube channel garnered significant attention in Turkey, with Tatar’s statements widely discussed on various news platforms and social media. Many users highlighted how Tatar’s words had once again provoked the Greek Cypriot side, leading to heated debates online.
Overall, Tatar’s interview on Sabah TV has reignited tensions between North and South Cyprus, underscoring the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in the region. As discussions continue regarding the potential establishment of a Turkish military base in Northern Cyprus, the fallout from Tatar’s remarks serves as a reminder of the delicate balance of power in the Eastern Mediterranean.
