The developments in the broader region obviously affect Cyprus and our national issue. Because we are in the neighborhood and have been experiencing occupation since 1974, facing an expansionist power. It becomes increasingly evident – with wars in our region – that diplomacy fails to provide solutions, as it has been subjugated to the logic of military power.
We all observe what is happening in Gaza and Ukraine. It is clear that the practices adopted, coupled with the indifference of the so-called international community, not only lead to escalation but also strengthen policies of imposition. Open war fronts continue as part of everyday life. Even when a general conflict is threatened in the Middle East, the calls are subdued.
This was also mentioned in the recent session of the National Council, as noted by the President of the Republic in his letter to the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, regarding violations by the occupying force in the buffer zone. The fact that the war in the region significantly affects our own maneuvers and the conditions under which Nicosia is called upon to handle the Cyprus issue. And this is because we have an occupying force, Turkey, against us, operating on the logic of imposition. Just like Israel.
We’ve been hearing since October 7th that Israel has the “right to self-defense.” After that, it was added that this must be done “within limits.” What does that mean? It is open to interpretation. The limit is determined by the attacker when enjoying the tolerance of various third parties.
At the same time, plans for the violent displacement of Palestinians seem to be unfolding. Netanyahu called it “personal opinions” of his ministers. At the same time, he mentioned in front of party officials that Israel is discussing with Ghana and the Congo to accept Palestinians from Gaza. And this is for economic benefit. It is a practice that involves ethnic cleansing, without being named. And then? Settlers will be moved to Gaza. And the next step will be the West Bank.
Ethnic cleansing and colonization are practices followed by occupying Turkey. It is what we call parallel lives, two occupying forces, although they are currently in continuous confrontation. Ethnic cleansing, colonization, and cultural distortion of the occupied territories constitute the framework of Turkey’s expansionist policy in Cyprus. It is a plan that was implemented immediately after the Turkish invasion of 1974 and carried out systematically.
In relation to Israel, the planning is done in anticipation of the fact that Jordan and Egypt seem unwilling to transfer the Palestinian population to their territories. That’s why it seeks countries that will “accept” the forcibly displaced. Always uncompensated.
No one can know to what extent this plan will be implemented, as it depends on many factors. And the transfer is not easy. The important thing, based on reports, seems to be to prevent it. And the voices of reaction should include that of Cyprus, which has experienced ethnic cleansing and still experiences colonization. We know – just like the Palestinians – what this practice means and can only stand against it.
P.S. I quote from a text by Pantelis Boukalas in the Athenian Kathimerini: “In Gaza, two Palestinians are amputated every day. Without anesthesia. Anesthetic drugs are nowhere to be found. The international community uses it all. To numb its famous sensitivity.”
