40 Facts About Turkish Invasion Of Cyprus

Source: Theguardian.com

Why did Turkey invade Cyprus in 1974? The Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974 was a response to a coup d'état by Greek Cypriot nationalists who aimed to unite Cyprus with Greece. This coup was backed by the Greek military junta, which alarmed Turkey. Fearing the potential for ethnic cleansing of Turkish Cypriots and the strategic loss of influence in the region, Turkey launched a military intervention. Operation Attila resulted in the occupation of the northern part of the island, leading to a de facto partition that persists today. This event has left a lasting impact on Cypriot society, politics, and international relations.

Key Takeaways:

The Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974 led to a lasting division, impacting the lives of Greek and Turkish Cypriots. Efforts for peace and reunification continue, offering hope for a peaceful resolution.
The invasion had profound humanitarian, cultural, and social impacts, creating distinct identities and affecting education. Ongoing efforts for peace and reconciliation aim to address the long-term consequences of the conflict.

Table of Contents

Background of the Turkish Invasion of Cyprus

The Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974 was a significant event that reshaped the island's history. It led to a division that still exists today. Here are some key facts about this pivotal moment.

The invasion began on July 20, 1974, following a coup d'état by Greek Cypriot nationalists.
Turkey justified the invasion by citing its role as a guarantor power under the 1960 Treaty of Guarantee.
The operation was named "Operation Atilla" by the Turkish military.
The invasion resulted in the occupation of approximately 37% of Cyprus's territory.
The conflict led to the displacement of around 200,000 Greek Cypriots from the north.
Approximately 50,000 Turkish Cypriots were displaced from the south.

Political and International Reactions

The invasion sparked a wide range of reactions from various countries and international organizations. These responses shaped the subsequent political landscape.

The United Nations Security Council passed Resolution 353, calling for a ceasefire and withdrawal of foreign troops.
The United States imposed an arms embargo on Turkey in response to the invasion.
Greece withdrew from NATO's military command structure as a protest against the invasion.
The European Economic Community (EEC) condemned the invasion and called for the restoration of Cyprus's sovereignty.
The Non-Aligned Movement supported Cyprus's independence and territorial integrity.
The invasion led to strained relations between Turkey and several Western countries.

Humanitarian Impact

The invasion had a profound humanitarian impact on the island's population, affecting both Greek and Turkish Cypriots.

Thousands of people were killed or went missing during the conflict.
Many families were separated, with loved ones ending up on opposite sides of the divide.
The invasion led to the establishment of refugee camps for displaced persons.
Properties abandoned by displaced persons were later used to house others displaced by the conflict.
The United Nations established a buffer zone, known as the Green Line, to separate the two communities.
The Green Line is patrolled by the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP).

Long-term Consequences

The invasion's long-term consequences continue to affect Cyprus and its people. These impacts are visible in various aspects of life on the island.

The island remains divided, with the northern part declared as the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) in 1983.
The TRNC is only recognized by Turkey, while the rest of the world considers it part of the Republic of Cyprus.
The division has led to economic disparities between the north and south.
Efforts to reunify the island have been ongoing but have yet to succeed.
The Annan Plan, proposed in 2004, was a significant attempt at reunification but was rejected by Greek Cypriots in a referendum.
The division has impacted property rights, with many legal disputes over ownership of land and homes.

Cultural and Social Effects

The invasion also had significant cultural and social effects, influencing the identities and daily lives of Cypriots.

The division has led to the development of distinct Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot identities.
Cultural heritage sites in the north have faced neglect and damage.
Efforts have been made to preserve and restore cultural heritage on both sides of the divide.
The division has affected education, with separate school systems for Greek and Turkish Cypriots.
Intercommunal contact has been limited, although there have been efforts to promote reconciliation.
Bi-communal initiatives, such as the Committee on Missing Persons, aim to address humanitarian issues from the conflict.

Military and Strategic Aspects

The military and strategic aspects of the invasion reveal the complexities of the conflict and the interests of various parties involved.

The Turkish military used a combination of air, sea, and land forces during the invasion.
The Greek Cypriot National Guard and EOKA B, a paramilitary group, resisted the invasion.
The conflict saw the use of heavy artillery, tanks, and aircraft.
The Turkish military established a strong presence in the north, with several military bases.
The strategic location of Cyprus in the Eastern Mediterranean has made it a point of interest for regional and global powers.

Ongoing Efforts for Peace

Despite the challenges, efforts for peace and reunification continue, driven by both local and international actors.

The United Nations has facilitated numerous rounds of peace talks between Greek and Turkish Cypriot leaders.
Confidence-building measures, such as opening crossing points along the Green Line, have been implemented.
Civil society organizations on both sides work towards reconciliation and mutual understanding.
The European Union supports efforts for a comprehensive settlement to the Cyprus problem.
The hope for a peaceful resolution remains, with many Cypriots longing for reunification and lasting peace.

The Lasting Impact of the Turkish Invasion of Cyprus

The Turkish Invasion of Cyprus in 1974 left a significant mark on the island's history. It resulted in the division of Cyprus into the Turkish-controlled north and the Greek-controlled south. This division still exists today, with the Green Line acting as a buffer zone. The invasion displaced thousands of people, creating a refugee crisis that affected many families. Efforts to reunify the island have been ongoing, but a lasting solution remains elusive. The invasion also had broader geopolitical implications, affecting relations between Turkey, Greece, and other countries in the region. Understanding these events helps us grasp the complexities of modern Cypriot society and the ongoing challenges it faces. The legacy of the invasion continues to influence the island's political landscape, making it a crucial chapter in Cyprus's history.

Frequently Asked Questions

QWhy did Turkey invade Cyprus in 1974?

Turkey's military intervention in Cyprus, back in July 1974, was a response to a coup d'état on the island. This coup was aimed at annexing Cyprus to Greece, stirring fears among Turkish Cypriots. Ankara justified its actions by citing the Treaty of Guarantee, which allowed Turkey, Greece, and the United Kingdom to intervene in Cyprus to restore constitutional order.

QWhat was the outcome of the Turkish invasion?

Following the invasion, Cyprus got divided into two main parts: the north, occupied by Turkish forces, and the south, controlled by the Cypriot government. This division led to the establishment of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus in 1983, recognized only by Turkey. The conflict displaced thousands and remains unresolved, with numerous UN resolutions calling for the withdrawal of Turkish troops.

QHow did the international community react to the invasion?

The international reaction was mixed yet mostly critical of Turkey's military action. The United Nations passed several resolutions condemning the invasion and calling for the withdrawal of foreign troops from Cyprus. However, geopolitical interests in the region have often complicated efforts to reach a lasting solution.

QAre there still tensions between Greek and Turkish Cypriots?

Yes, tensions persist, mainly due to the unresolved political status of the island and the presence of Turkish troops in the north. Efforts to reunify the island have seen some progress over the years, but negotiations have repeatedly stalled, leaving the future uncertain.

QWhat efforts have been made to resolve the Cyprus issue?

Numerous rounds of UN-facilitated peace talks have been held since the division, aiming to find a comprehensive solution to reunify the island under a federal system. While some progress has been made, particularly on economic and social issues, key disagreements over territorial adjustments and security guarantees remain obstacles.

QHow has the Cyprus division affected its people?

The division has had profound effects on Cypriots, including displacement, loss of property, and divided families. Economic disparities between the north and south have also emerged. Despite these challenges, both communities have made efforts to foster understanding and reconciliation through bicommunal projects and dialogue.

QCan tourists visit both parts of Cyprus?

Yes, tourists can visit both the Greek Cypriot south and the Turkish Cypriot north. Crossing points are available for people to travel between the two sides, though specific entry requirements may apply. Visitors can experience a rich blend of cultures, historical sites, and natural beauty throughout the island.

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