F-16 move aimed at island-wide security, says Çelik

Türkiye’s ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party) Spokesperson Ömer Çelik has stated that the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) should not be left alone, responding to criticism in the European press over Türkiye’s reported deployment of F-16 fighter jets to the island.

Speaking on the Cyprus issue and addressing criticism in European media regarding Türkiye’s move to send F-16s to the TRNC, Çelik emphasised that the step would not only ensure the security of the TRNC but also contribute to the safety of all people on the island.

He described the move as strengthening the elements required to fulfil Türkiye’s guarantor responsibilities in the face of any unlawful attack.

He also pointed out that several countries, from the Netherlands to France, have sent additional forces to support the Greek Cypriot side, questioning the criticism directed at Türkiye.

Stressing that the TRNC should not be left isolated, Çelik said that criticisms from the Greek Cypriot side, European media, and politicians “carry no importance,” describing them as a result of what he called “institutionalised hypocrisy.”

Çelik also stated that the views expressed by President Tufan Erhürman on the matter were “100 per cent correct.”