Emphasis on a terror-free Türkiye and the Eastern Mediterranean from the NSC: Striking messages in the written statement

The National Security Council (NSC) convened at Beştepe under the chairmanship of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.

The statement released after the meeting addressed counter-terrorism, the 'Terror-Free Türkiye' goal, organized crime operations, the Eastern Mediterranean, the US-Iran agreement, Gaza, Syria, Iraq, the Russia-Ukraine war, and developments in the South Caucasus.

The statement emphasized that Türkiye's determination in the fight against terrorism will continue and stated that no fait accompli that would harm the rights and interests of the TRNC will be permitted.

THE FOLLOWING STATEMENTS WERE USED IN THE WRITTEN STATEMENT ISSUED AFTER THE NSC MEETING:

The National Security Council met on June 18, 2026, under the chairmanship of the President of the Republic of Türkiye, Mr. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.

At the meeting;

1. The Council was briefed on the activities carried out with perseverance, determination, and success both domestically and abroad against all kinds of threats and dangers to our national unity, solidarity, and survival, primarily the PKK/KCK-PYD/YPG, FETÖ, and DAESH terrorist organizations, as well as recent international developments.

2. Efforts aimed at achieving the 'Terror-Free Türkiye' and 'Terror-Free Region' goals, which are of critical importance for the future of our country and our region, were evaluated; the strong will to rid our nation and our neighbors of the heavy burden of terrorism was reaffirmed.

3. Operations carried out within the scope of the fight against organized crime were discussed; it was underlined that the steps taken with the goal of absolutely preserving the peace and security of all our citizens, especially our children and youth, will be continued decisively.

4. It was emphasized that Türkiye, in its capacity as a guarantor country, is capable and determined to take all kinds of measures within the framework of international law for the security, peace, and prosperity of the Turkish Cypriots; it was noted that no fait accompli that would prejudice the rights and interests of the TRNC and damage the environment of peace in the Eastern Mediterranean would be allowed.

5. Satisfaction was expressed regarding the agreement reached between Iran and the US, and attention was drawn to the importance of not allowing the process to be derailed; it was stated that Türkiye will continue to contribute effectively to efforts aimed at ensuring lasting peace and stability in the region.

6. It was stated that the progress made in establishing peace, stability, and tranquility in Syria was welcomed; it was underlined that our support for efforts aimed at strengthening the unity, integrity, and development of Syria will continue.

7. It was stated that the aggressive actions of the Israeli administration, which continues its ceasefire violations in Gaza, settler terrorism in the West Bank, attacks on the status of East Jerusalem and the Al-Aqsa Mosque, and infringements upon the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Lebanon, have a negative impact on efforts to establish peace and stability in the region.

The international community was invited to take a principled stance against the persistent attitude of the Israeli administration, which disregards universal humanitarian values and international law.

8. Our strong will to continue the strategic cooperation established with Iraq in every field with the new Iraqi Government was reaffirmed; our support for the preservation of the stability and security environment in Iraq was emphasized.

9. The latest situation in the Russia-Ukraine War was discussed; a call was made to the parties responsible for the escalation of conflicts and their spread to neighboring regions, especially the Black Sea, to take steps as soon as possible for a just and lasting peace.

10. The course of developments across the African continent was evaluated; it was noted that Türkiye will continue its support for the preservation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of friendly and brotherly African countries, as well as for ensuring peace, stability, and prosperity on the continent.

11. Current developments recorded in the direction of strengthening peace, stability, and cooperation in the South Caucasus were discussed.