Ersin Tatar, the leader of the Turkish Cypriots, spoke about “arrogant behaviors that have pushed the world to the brink of World War III,” comparing “southern Cyprus” to Israel.
In a social media announcement, Tatar asserted that the recent strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran’s nuclear facilities starkly highlight the injustices of our world.
He criticized the prevailing attitude of “it can be mine, but not yours” and “it’s my right, but not yours,” claiming it has led us to the edge of WWIII. “We expect diplomacy to be implemented promptly,” he remarked.
“We must remember that we live in a world where power determines right, and no nation—be it Western or Muslim—is beyond reproach,” he stated. “This is painfully evident in the lives of Palestinians in Gaza,” he added.
Referring to the Turkish Cypriot community, he stated that they recognize “our southern neighbor is no different from Israel.” He characterized the dominant mentality as one that views them as a minority on the island, unwilling to accept them as equals and eager to undermine them, much like their situation in Gaza.
“Nonetheless, as the Turkish Cypriot people, we refuse to live by scenarios dictated by others. We will proceed with our own determination and unity. True peace and security can only be achieved by safeguarding our own rights and will. Our future will be shaped by our collective resolve, not by external plans,” Mr. Tatar emphasized.
Additionally, both Tatar and the so-called “prime minister” of the breakaway state, Ünal Üstel, expressed gratitude to Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan in written statements for his supportive remarks regarding the breakaway state during the Organization of Islamic Cooperation summit in Istanbul.
They underscored that the Turkish minister’s clear reference to the “inhumane isolation” of Turkish Cypriots over the years and his call for the Islamic world to “establish direct contact with the Turkish Cypriots” holds great significance for them.
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