Ertugruloglu: Israel Aspires to Occupy Cyprus and Aegean Islands

Tahsın Ertuğruloğlu, the self-proclaimed "foreign minister" of the occupied territories, claimed that Israel aspires to occupy Cyprus and islands in the Aegean Sea, repeating the "plan to occupy Palestine." Referring to scenarios of Israel renting Greek islands, he characterized them as a "flawed" mentality that aims to encircle Turkey and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). Ertuğruloğlu argued that this move should be considered a "casus belli" (reason for war), as it represents a repetition of past imperialist plans. He believes that Israel seeks to repeat the occupation of Palestine, extending its ambitions to Cyprus and the Aegean islands. These statements come at a time of increased tension in the region and are expected to further worsen relations between Turkey, Israel and Greece. Turkey has repeatedly expressed its opposition to actions it believes threaten its interests in the Eastern Mediterranean. Ertuğruloğlu's statements are part of a broader rhetoric used by Turkey to justify its own actions in the region and to put pressure on other countries. Criticism of Israel and the portrayal of Turkey as a protector of Cyprus and the TRNC are key elements of this strategy.