Erdogan warns Turkey may build Naval Base in Northern Cyprus amid Greek tensions.

According to information published by Al Jazeera on July 21, 2024, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has announced that Turkey is prepared to build a naval base in Northern Cyprus if necessary. This declaration comes amid accusations that Greece is planning to establish its own naval base on the divided island.
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The Turkish president at the launching ceremony of the Reis-class submarine HızırReis. (Picture source: Turkish presidency)

Erdogan made these remarks following his visit to Northern Cyprus to commemorate 50 years since Turkey's 1974 invasion, which resulted in the island's ongoing division. He emphasized Turkey's readiness to construct naval facilities in the north of Cyprus and criticized Greece's military intentions in the region.

The conflict in Cyprus dates back to its independence from Britain in 1960. Tensions between Greek and Turkish Cypriots led to violence and the eventual division of the island. In 1974, Turkey occupied more than a third of Cyprus, leading to the displacement of thousands of Greek Cypriots. The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus was later established in 1983, recognized only by Turkey.

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The potential establishment of a Turkish naval base in Northern Cyprus carries significant military implications. Turkey’s strategy in the Eastern Mediterranean involves asserting its influence and securing its interests amid regional tensions, particularly those related to hydrocarbon reserves and territorial disputes.

A naval base in Northern Cyprus would enhance Turkey’s capacity for rapid deployment and logistical support, allowing Turkish naval vessels to respond swiftly to any threats in the region. The planned base at Lefkoniko, alongside other military installations, would serve as a hub for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and potentially fighter aircraft.

Additionally, the base would support Turkish drilling operations near Cyprus, ensuring the protection and maintenance of Turkish interests in contested waters.

These developments have raised concerns among Cyprus and other regional actors. The Republic of Cyprus has consistently opposed these actions, viewing them as illegal and a threat to regional stability.