The National Security Council (MGK) of Türkiye convened on Tuesday under the leadership of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, addressing a comprehensive agenda that spanned national security, regional conflicts, and urgent international crises.

In its post-meeting statement, the Council reaffirmed Türkiye’s unwavering resolve to protect its national unity, sovereignty, and security against all forms of threat, while also issuing sharp condemnations of Israeli atrocities in Gaza and pledging continued support for peace in neighboring regions.

Counterterrorism: Progress Toward a “Terrorism-Free Türkiye”

At the core of the MGK discussions was Türkiye’s ongoing battle against terrorism. The Council received detailed briefings on successful operations against multiple terrorist organizations, including PKK/KCK-PYD/YPG, FETO, and DAESH. Officials emphasized that these operations, both within the country and across borders, have been carried out with “determination, resolve, and success.”

The Council underlined that significant strides have been made toward realizing the vision of a “Terrorism-Free Türkiye,” describing this progress as the dismantling of the “wall of terror” that has long hindered the nation’s peace, prosperity, and security. The MGK declared its full commitment to ensuring that terrorism is eradicated not only within Türkiye’s borders but also across the broader region.

“No manifestation of terrorism will be tolerated in our neighboring geography, and no expansionism under the guise of terrorism will be permitted under any circumstances,” the statement read, sending a clear warning to groups and states that might seek to exploit instability.

Syria and Iraq: Safeguarding Sovereignty and Stability

The MGK devoted significant attention to the situations in Syria and Iraq, two countries whose instability directly impacts Türkiye’s security. The Council reaffirmed Türkiye’s support for the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and unity of both states.

It pledged continued resistance against “actors and agendas” that pose threats to Syria’s and Iraq’s stability, making clear that Türkiye will not allow these nations to be dragged deeper into regional conflicts. Ankara’s stance was framed as one of principled solidarity, aimed at ensuring that its neighbors do not become arenas for proxy wars or foreign expansionism.

Gaza: Condemning Genocide and Calling for Global Action

One of the strongest messages of the MGK meeting was directed at the Israeli occupation and its ongoing war crimes in Gaza. The Council highlighted the “illegitimate policies of the Israeli administration” that have caused what it termed “a humanitarian catastrophe and deaths from starvation.”

The statement went further, describing the assault on Gaza as genocide, insisting that halting it and holding its perpetrators accountable has become “a joint responsibility of all humanity.”

Türkiye called on the international community, and specifically on institutions such as the United Nations, to move beyond symbolic gestures and take immediate, concrete action. It emphasized that Türkiye will continue to actively contribute to every positive step toward establishing a just and lasting peace, positioning itself as both a moral voice and a diplomatic actor in global efforts to end the atrocities.

Cyprus: Endorsing a Two-State Solution

On the long-standing Cyprus issue, the MGK once again underscored Türkiye’s unwavering support for the rights of the Turkish Cypriots. The Council reaffirmed its backing for a two-state solution based on the recognition of sovereign equality and equal international status.

Türkiye, the statement stressed, will maintain its firm stance against any moves that might jeopardize the peace and stability of the island, making clear that the future of Cyprus cannot be determined through unilateral steps or imposed arrangements.

Russia-Ukraine War: Escalation Concerns and Türkiye’s Mediation Role

The MGK also reviewed the latest developments in the Russia-Ukraine war. Expressing serious concern over incidents suggesting the risk of further escalation, the Council noted that such developments could have devastating consequences not only for the region but for global stability.

Türkiye reiterated its readiness to assume greater responsibility in facilitating dialogue and contributing to the establishment of peace. This reflects Ankara’s continued role as a potential mediator between the warring sides, building on its earlier efforts to broker grain export agreements and humanitarian corridors.

Armenia Normalisation and the Nakhchivan Corridor

The Council addressed Türkiye’s ongoing normalization process with Armenia, stressing the importance of new transportation projects that will reshape regional connectivity. In particular, the proposed corridor linking Azerbaijan and Nakhchivan was described as a vital route that would enable uninterrupted access between the two regions and serve the interests of all neighboring countries.

The MGK underscored Türkiye’s will to support final peace in the South Caucasus, highlighting its role as a stabilizing actor and an advocate for regional cooperation.

Bosnia and Herzegovina: Commitment to Stability in the Balkans

Turning to the Balkans, the Council reaffirmed Türkiye’s long-standing support for Bosnia and Herzegovina’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and constitutional order. The statement highlighted Ankara’s readiness to stand by the people of Bosnia against any threats to their stability, noting that peace in the Balkans remains an integral part of Türkiye’s foreign policy priorities.

A Comprehensive Security Vision

The MGK’s Tuesday session presented a broad security and foreign policy vision, one that links Türkiye’s internal fight against terrorism with its regional responsibilities and global humanitarian commitments.

From eliminating terrorist threats at home, to opposing Israeli genocide in Gaza, to promoting peace in conflict zones from Ukraine to the Balkans, Türkiye positioned itself as both a defender of national sovereignty and a proactive actor for international justice and stability.

The statement concluded with a reaffirmation of Türkiye’s resolve to protect its people, strengthen its alliances with oppressed nations, and stand firm against all forces—terrorist or state-backed—that threaten peace and justice in the region. (ILKHA)