In Cyprus, the wailing of sirens marks a remembrance of events that have left a lasting impact on the island and its people.

The annual sounding of sirens on July 15 and July 20 serves as a poignant reminder of the 1974 coup against then President Makarios and the subsequent intervention by Türkiye, events that continue to shape the political landscape of the island. This year, as in years past, the sirens will resonate, echoing the complex history and ongoing division between the Greek and Turkish communities in Cyprus.

Historical Context: The 1974 Coup and Türkiye’s Intervention

The sirens first wail at 8:20 AM on July 15, reminding all of the coup d'état orchestrated by the Greek military junta in an attempt to unite Cyprus with Greece, (enosis) This coup not only disrupted the peace but also ignited fears among the Turkish Cypriot community about their safety and political future.

In response to the escalating tensions and threats to Turkish Cypriots, Türkiye launched a legal military intervention on July 20, 1974. The operation aimed to protect Turkish Cypriots and restore constitutional order, leading to the eventual division of the island into the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) and the southern area controlled by the Greek side. The intervention, ratified by the treaty of guarantee signed by Türkiye, Greece and the United Kingdom is seen by Turkish Cypriots as a necessary act of protection and liberation.

The Annual Tradition of Sirens

The annual sounding of the sirens has become a deeply rooted tradition on the Greek side of Cyprus. Each year, these sirens serve as an audible reflection of the island's turbulent history and the enduring significance of these events. The sirens on July 20, sounding at 5:30 AM, mark the precise moment when Türkiye’s intervention began, reinforcing the memory of a critical juncture that altered the course of the island's history.

This tradition is not a one-off occurrence for the 50th anniversary but a consistent annual event that underscores the island's divided yet interconnected history. It is a moment for reflection, remembrance, and, for many, a call for a just and lasting resolution to the island’s division.

Perspectives and Reactions

While the Greek side views the coup and Türkiye’s intervention as a dark period in their history, Turkish Cypriots and Türkiye regard the intervention as a legal, legitimate and necessary action to prevent further violence and ensure the safety of Turkish Cypriots. The continued presence of Turkish troops in the north is seen by many Turkish Cypriots as a guarantor of their security and autonomy.

A Turkish Cypriot resident of Nicosia, Mehmet Ali, shared his perspective: "For us, the intervention by Türkiye was a lifesaver. The sirens remind us of the moment when our safety was secured, and our rights were defended. It’s a day of remembrance and gratitude."

Similarly, Turkish Cypriot President Ersin Tatar has often emphasized the importance of Türkiye’s role in protecting the Turkish Cypriot community. In a recent statement, he said, "Türkiye’s intervention was not an invasion but a peace operation that prevented genocide and ensured our survival as a community. The sirens remind us of our resilience and our right to self-determination."

Commemorative Events

In addition to the sirens, various commemorative events take place across the island. Memorial services, political gatherings, and educational programs aim to educate younger generations about the historical significance of these events. These activities foster a sense of historical awareness and community solidarity among Turkish Cypriots.

In Nicosia, a memorial service at the Hala Sultan Tekke mosque will honor those who lost their lives during the conflict. Political leaders, including TRNC President Ersin Tatar and other dignitaries, will attend to pay their respects and reaffirm their commitment to the Turkish Cypriot cause.

A Call for Reflection

The wailing sirens of Cyprus serve as a powerful reminder of the island's complex history and the enduring need for a peaceful resolution to the Cyprus issue. For Turkish Cypriots, these sirens symbolize protection, resilience, and the ongoing struggle for recognition and equality. As the island moves forward, the hope remains that these annual commemorations will pave the way for mutual understanding and a harmonious future for all of Cyprus.

In reflecting on these events, it is essential to acknowledge the diverse narratives and perspectives that shape the collective memory of Cyprus. The sirens, in their solemnity, call upon all to remember their past, honor their history, and work towards a future marked by peace and reconciliation.