In a move that epitomizes the underhanded tactics of anti-Turkish lobbying groups, the American Hellenic Institute (AHI) has called on U.S. President Joe Biden to use the remaining time of his administration to further entrench their one-sided agenda on the Cyprus issue.

Their November 25 letter to Biden, an overtly desperate plea, once again reveals the group’s troubling role in fueling division, rather than fostering diplomacy.  

A Lobby Fueled by Propaganda, Not Diplomacy  
The AHI presents itself as a think tank, but its actions paint a different picture—one of a deeply partisan group dedicated to advancing the Greek national narrative. This latest letter is no exception. Far from proposing actionable solutions to the Cyprus conflict, the AHI uses inflammatory rhetoric to demonize Türkiye and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). Their allegations include baseless claims that Türkiye is using the TRNC as a hiding ground for Hamas, a statement so detached from reality it borders on the absurd.  

This isn't the first time AHI has made such provocative moves. Over the years, their correspondence with figures like U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has focused on vilifying Türkiye and its allies, blatantly ignoring the on-ground realities and the legitimate rights of the Turkish Cypriot people.

A Call for Biden to Escalate Tensions  
In their letter, AHI urged Biden to act aggressively against Türkiye, using the Middle East’s ongoing unrest as a pretext. By framing Türkiye’s protective role in the TRNC as a threat to U.S. interests, AHI attempts to pressure the United States into aligning with their divisive agenda. Such tactics not only undermine any genuine efforts for reconciliation in Cyprus but also drag the U.S. into unnecessary and counterproductive conflicts in the Eastern Mediterranean.

AHI’s letter also reeks of desperation. They are clutching at straws, hoping that Biden’s hawkish tendencies might serve their goals before his administration leaves office. Rather than advocating for peace, AHI is capitalizing on global instability to push their anti-Turkish agenda, disregarding the fact that their actions further alienate the Turkish Cypriot community and deepen the region’s divides.

The Danger of One-Sided Lobbying  
AHI’s actions highlight a disturbing trend in U.S. foreign policy circles: the disproportionate influence of special-interest groups with singular, divisive agendas. This influence is not only detrimental to diplomatic efforts but also paints a skewed picture of the Cyprus conflict. Instead of promoting an equitable solution, groups like AHI actively work against dialogue, effectively ensuring that Turkish Cypriots remain sidelined.  

The consequences of such lobbying are clear. AHI’s narrative emboldens the Greek Cypriot side to maintain its intransigence, fostering the illusion that Cyprus can be “reunited” under Greek domination without addressing the realities of Turkish Cypriot sovereignty and security.  

A Call to Action for Turkish and Turkish Cypriot Diaspora  
In light of AHI’s troubling influence, it is imperative for the Turkish and Turkish Cypriot diaspora in the United States to mobilize. Advocacy efforts must focus on countering the falsehoods perpetuated by groups like AHI, emphasizing the need for balanced U.S. engagement in the Cyprus issue. 

The upcoming U.S. presidential transition offers a unique opportunity for Turkish Cypriots to advocate for their rights. A potential meeting between President Ersin Tatar and President-elect Donald Trump would be a landmark moment. Given Trump’s history of unorthodox diplomacy—such as meeting with North Korea’s Kim Jong-un—there is no reason why he cannot engage with the TRNC’s leadership. This would send a powerful message about the importance of inclusive dialogue and mutual respect.  

The Need for True Diplomacy  
While AHI pursues its divisive agenda, Turkish Cypriots and their allies must advocate for solutions rooted in dialogue, not demonization. True peace in the Eastern Mediterranean can only be achieved through inclusive negotiations that respect the rights of all parties, including the Turkish Cypriot community. 

The U.S. must also recognize the detrimental effects of allowing groups like AHI to dominate its foreign policy discussions. Rather than succumbing to one-sided narratives, American policymakers should prioritize balanced engagement that fosters stability and cooperation in the region.

TCE Conclusion  
The American Hellenic Institute’s latest stunt is a stark reminder of the challenges Turkish Cypriots face on the global stage. Far from contributing to peace, AHI’s actions deepen divisions and perpetuate a narrative that marginalizes Turkish Cypriots. It is high time for Turkish Cypriot advocates to counter these falsehoods and push for meaningful dialogue with the incoming U.S. administration.  

The future of the TRNC depends on breaking through the propaganda and ensuring that its voice is heard—not as a subsidiary to Greek or Turkish interests, but as a sovereign entity deserving of respect and recognition. A meeting between President Tatar and President Trump could be the first step in a new chapter of diplomacy, one that prioritizes peace and partnership over propaganda.  

References  
- Greek-American think tank urges Biden to use his remaining time to help resolve Cyprus conflict. Turkish Minute. November 29, 2024.  
- American Hellenic Institute. Various public statements and advocacy materials.