Ankara's clear message to 'We will close the Aegean with missiles' remarks

The Ministry of National Defense responded to questions regarding the latest developments on the agenda during its weekly press briefing. The statements highlighted topics such as relations with Greece, Black Sea security, claims regarding the Pashalimanı Naval Base, and the latest status of the fight against terrorism.

“WE WILL CLOSE THE AEGEAN FROM LAND WITH MISSILES”

Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias stated in an event he attended in Athens that they have changed their military doctrine regarding the Aegean. Arguing that naval power alone is not sufficient in the Aegean, Dendias said, “New frigates and warships are expensive for a narrow sea like the Aegean. Ships worth billions of Euros can be hit by low-cost UAVs. For this reason, we will control the Aegean not only with the navy but also from land with mobile missiles to be deployed on hundreds of islands. We will close the sea from land,” he had expressed.

THE NECESSARY RESPONSE WILL BE GIVEN TO ANY THREAT

Upon being asked for an assessment regarding Dendias' remarks, the Ministry of National Defense announced that all developments in the region, especially in the Aegean, are being closely monitored.

The Ministry emphasized that Turkey's primary priority is the preservation of peace and stability in the Aegean and its surroundings. It was stated that the same constructive attitude is expected from the Athens administration. It was noted that the rhetoric of some Greek officials that increases tension damages the positive atmosphere created between the leaders of the two countries.

The statement included the following:

“The Turkish Armed Forces are not a threat to anyone who does not pose a threat to them. However, they have the power and determination to eliminate any threat that may be directed at our country. We remind you that initiatives targeting Turkey have remained fruitless in the past, and will not achieve success today or in the future.”

ALL MEASURES ARE BEING IMPLEMENTED IN THE BLACK SEA

Responding to a question about attacks on ships in the Black Sea, the Ministry of National Defense reported that security measures are being maintained in the region within the framework of the “regional ownership” principle. It was emphasized that efforts are being made to reduce risks with the measures taken, but that lasting security can only be possible in an environment of peace.

The statement indicated that reconnaissance, surveillance, and patrol activities are being carried out uninterruptedly with naval and air assets to protect maritime jurisdiction areas and critical surface and underwater infrastructure, and that the Black Sea Mine Countermeasures Task Group (MCM BLACK SEA) continues its duties.

RESPONSE TO PAŞALIMANI NAVAL BASE CLAIMS

Clarification was also provided regarding claims that Turkey would withdraw from the Pashalimanı Naval Base in Albania. The Ministry of National Defense announced that the news in question does not reflect the truth.

The Ministry reported that the Naval Forces Command Albania Team Presidency, located in Pashalimanı Vlore, continues its cooperation activities in the fields of logistics, technology, and training.

728-KILOMETER TUNNEL NETWORK NEUTRALIZED

Rear Admiral Zeki Aktürk, Press and Public Relations Advisor to the Ministry of National Defense and Ministry Spokesperson, also shared weekly counter-terrorism data. It was reported that two more PKK terrorists surrendered in the last week.

It was stated that the clearing of mines and improvised explosive devices in operation areas, and the detection and destruction of caves, shelters, and bunkers continue. It was expressed that the seized weapons, ammunition, and materials have been rendered unusable.

It was announced that with the 3-kilometer new tunnel destroyed in Manbij, the total length of tunnels neutralized in Syrian operation areas has reached 728 kilometers.

News Source: 12punto