Türkiye's National Security Council (NSC) convened on Thursday under the chairmanship of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, reviewing the country's counterterrorism efforts, regional security developments, and key international crises while reaffirming Ankara's commitment to strengthening stability both at home and across the region.

Following the meeting held on 6 August 2026, the NSC issued a statement outlining discussions on national security priorities, including counterterrorism operations, NATO, the conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, and Türkiye's cooperation with neighboring countries.

The Council received briefings on ongoing security operations carried out domestically and abroad against organizations Türkiye designates as terrorist groups, including the PKK/KCK-PYD/YPG, FETÖ, and Daesh (ISIS).

According to the statement, members reviewed recent developments in the fight against terrorism and assessed measures aimed at protecting Türkiye's national unity, territorial integrity, and security.

The Council also discussed progress toward achieving what it described as the goals of a "Terror-Free Türkiye" and a "Terror-Free Region," describing the initiative as a historic step toward ensuring long-term security, stability, and prosperity for both Türkiye and the wider region.

Marking the tenth anniversary of the 15 July 2016 coup attempt, the Council evaluated the current state of operations against FETÖ, which Ankara holds responsible for orchestrating the failed coup.

The NSC reaffirmed that efforts to dismantle what it described as the organization's remaining networks would continue with determination until the group is completely eliminated.

The Council also reviewed the outcomes of the recent NATO Summit, hosted by Türkiye, describing it as a significant milestone for the future of the Alliance.

The statement reaffirmed Türkiye's commitment to contributing to NATO through its advanced defense capabilities and resources while continuing constructive cooperation with allied nations.

The NSC expressed concern over renewed tensions between Iran and the United States, warning that further escalation could threaten regional stability and disrupt global trade routes.

The Council called on all parties to avoid the use of force and instead return to negotiations aimed at achieving a lasting and peaceful resolution.

Addressing the ongoing Russia–Ukraine war, the Council stressed that the conflict could not be resolved by expanding military confrontations into neighboring regions, particularly the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea.

The NSC urged both sides to reduce tensions and take concrete steps toward a negotiated peace.

The Council underscored the importance of Türkiye's expanding cooperation with neighboring Syria and Iraq, describing regional collaboration as essential for promoting long-term security, peace, and economic prosperity.

It stated that Ankara would continue contributing to initiatives aimed at strengthening regional solidarity and enhancing cooperation with its neighbors.

The NSC also addressed developments in the occupied Palestinian territories, expressing concern over what it described as continued ceasefire violations despite progress achieved under the Gaza Peace Plan.

The statement criticized ongoing settler violence against Palestinians and condemned continued actions targeting religious sites, particularly Al-Aqsa Mosque.

The Council called on the international community to adopt what it described as a clear and uncompromising stance in response to ceasefire violations, settler violence, and attacks on holy sites.

The meeting reflected Türkiye's broad security agenda, covering domestic counterterrorism operations, regional diplomacy, alliance commitments, and international conflicts.

Officials said the discussions reaffirmed Ankara's intention to continue pursuing policies aimed at strengthening national security while promoting regional stability through diplomacy, counterterrorism cooperation, and engagement with international partners. (ILKHA)