Kombos says Turkey’s actions in Cyprus will not be forgotten on invasion anniversary

Nicosia, Cyprus. Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos said Turkey’s actions during the 1974 invasion of Cyprus are “not time-barred, not forgiven, not covered up”, marking the 52nd anniversary of its second phase.

In a post on X, Kombos referred to Turkey’s “ongoing crime” and said it would not be forgotten.

Second phase of the invasion

The second phase of the Turkish invasion, known as “Attilla II”, lasted three days and resulted in the occupation of Famagusta and Morphou.

It followed a United Nations resolution of July 20 calling for an immediate ceasefire and an end to foreign military intervention in Cyprus after the first phase of the invasion.

The second offensive began after peace talks in Geneva collapsed. Turkey used the collapse as a pretext after transferring additional armed forces to the island.

Launch of the offensive

Rumours of a new Turkish advance circulated by August 13. At 3am on August 14, Turkish Foreign Minister Turan Gunes spoke by telephone with Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit, using the code phrase, “Ayse goes on vacation”.

Ayse was the name of Gunes’ daughter, and the message indicated that the second phase of the invasion could begin.

Turkish forces subsequently launched an offensive in two directions, towards Famagusta in the east and Morphou in the west. Troops advanced from the Kyrenia bridgehead with tanks and air support.

Territorial control and displacement

By 6pm on August 16, Turkish tanks had reached Famagusta and Morphou, completing the operation.

The offensive extended Turkish control to approximately 36 per cent of Cypriot territory and established the borders that remain in place today.

The occupation of Famagusta and Morphou, together with territory seized during the first phase, displaced up to 200,000 Greek Cypriots from their homes.