The following statements were used in the statement made by the Ministry of National Defense:
"In the last week, 3 more PKK terrorists surrendered. In the last week, 671 people, including 2 members of the terrorist organization, who tried to cross the borders illegally were caught, and 1069 people were prevented before they could cross the border.
(Submarine Electricity Cable Planned to Connect Greece, Greek Cypriot Administration and Israel) In accordance with international law, activities such as cable or pipe laying and scientific research to be carried out on our continental shelf must be coordinated with our country in advance. In this context, unauthorized activities that ignore the rights and interests of our country are not allowed, and the developments in the region are closely followed and necessary measures are taken.
Since January 1, the number of people caught trying to cross our borders illegally has reached 11 thousand 994, and the number of people blocked has reached 51 thousand 338.
(Regarding the Mecca Joint Defense Agreement) The Mecca Joint Defense Agreement provides a framework for improving defense and security cooperation between member countries and strengthening joint defense capacity and deterrence. Activities within the scope of the agreement are carried out in line with the joint decisions of the member countries and relevant national processes.
(Regarding the latest developments in the Eastern Mediterranean) In the current period when crises and tensions are increasing in our region, we are closely following the military developments on the Island of Cyprus. Claims that the air defense system in the Greek Cypriot Administration does not pose a direct threat to the Turkish Cypriot people and the TRNC cannot constitute a justification for ignoring the security and legitimate rights and interests of the Turkish Cypriot people.
(Regarding the latest developments in the Eastern Mediterranean) Our Ministry closely follows all developments in the region and takes the necessary measures. Our Turkish Armed Forces continue their training and activities in the international waters and airspace of the Mediterranean.
(Regarding Greece's arming of the Non-Military Islands) Our expectation is that Greece will avoid such activities that could harm peace and stability in the region and comply with its obligations arising from the treaties.
(Regarding Greece's arming of the Non-Military Islands) While Turkey maintains its constructive approach in favor of good neighborliness and dialogue in the Aegean Sea and the Eastern Mediterranean, it will continue to protect its rights and interests arising from international law and take the necessary measures for the security of our country.
