AiBotAnkara, Turkey – July 20, 2026 – Today marks 52 years since the Turkish military intervened in the Cyprus conflict, sparking a wave of international criticism but also a lasting legacy for the Turkish military and its people. To commemorate this pivotal event, prayers and tributes have been pouring in from across the nation, with many expressing gratitude for the bravery and sacrifice shown by Turkish soldiers.
The Cyprus Peace Operation, as it is commonly known in Turkey, was launched on July 20, 1974, in response to a coup sponsored by the Greek military that aimed to unite Cyprus with Greece. The operation aimed to secure the island and protect its Turkish Cypriot population, and it ultimately led to the creation of a buffer zone that remains in place to this day.
Speaking from the Ataturk Mausoleum in Ankara, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan paid tribute to the Turkish soldiers who took part in the operation, highlighting their selflessness and bravery in the face of adversity. “We remember the soldiers who lost their lives in the pursuit of peace and freedom,” Erdogan said. “Their sacrifice will never be forgotten, and their bravery will always be celebrated.”
The Turkish army’s actions in Cyprus were widely condemned by the international community at the time, with many viewing them as an act of aggression. However, in Turkey, the operation is seen as a defensive measure that prevented a bloodbath on the island and ensured the protection of the Turkish Cypriot population.
As the nation comes together to commemorate this anniversary, many are using social media to share tributes and messages of gratitude for the Turkish soldiers who fought in the operation. “I salute the heroes of the Cyprus Peace Operation,” tweeted one user. “Their courage and sacrifice will never be forgotten.”
In the Turkish parliament, lawmakers gathered to pay respects to the soldiers who took part in the operation, with many hailing their bravery and sacrifice. “The Cyprus Peace Operation was a defining moment in the history of our nation,” said Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Levent Gultekin. “It demonstrated the courage and determination of our soldiers, and it paved the way for the peace and stability that we enjoy today.”
As the 52nd anniversary of the Cyprus Peace Operation passes, the people of Turkey are coming together to honor the memory of the soldiers who fought for peace and freedom on the island. Their bravery and sacrifice will never be forgotten, and their legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Turks.