Claims of a NATO base being established on the Bosphorus: 'The process began in 2023'

Security sources have provided an assessment regarding the claims concerning the "NATO Multinational Corps Headquarters," which have become a subject of public debate in recent days. It was stated that the claims circulating, particularly on social media, that a "NATO base is being established on the Bosphorus" are not true.

MSB: THE PROCESS WAS INITIATED IN 2023

In a statement made by the Ministry of National Defense, it was reported that efforts to establish a "Corps Headquarters" within the scope of the "NATO Southeast Regional Plan" were initiated in 2023. The statement noted that the initiative in question was officially communicated to NATO within 2024.

"CONCEPTS ARE BEING CONFUSED"

According to information conveyed by Türkiye Gazetesi columnist Yeşim Erarslan, security sources stated that the claims in the public domain do not reflect the truth. The statement emphasized that concepts are being confused due to the simultaneous execution of different military activities, which leads to disinformation.

"THERE IS NO NATO UNIT UNDER FOREIGN COMMAND"

Security sources clearly stated that there is no question of establishing a NATO unit under foreign command in Turkey. It was noted that the activities Turkey conducts in the Black Sea have been carried out in line with the principle of regional ownership to date.

MONTREUX SENSITIVITY EMPHASIZED

The statement further expressed that military activities in the Black Sea will be conducted solely by littoral states. While it was stated that the sensitivity within the framework of the Montreux Convention Regarding the Regime of the Straits will continue, it was conveyed that all activities, whether NATO or non-NATO, will be carried out within this scope. It was noted that other countries can only be provided with equipment, personnel, and training support.

News Source: 12punto