The island of Cyprus, with its strategic location, has long been the focal point of international plans and power struggles. Recently, claims of renewed efforts by the United States to revive the Annan Plan, as reported by Aydınlık Newspaper, have once again disrupted the delicate balance on the island.

 

These developments have heightened the legitimate concerns of the Turkish side, drawing global attention to the region.

 

The Annan Plan: A Lingering Controversy

First introduced in 2004 by then-UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan, the Annan Plan aimed to establish a united Cypriot state. Despite the Turkish side’s willingness to accept the proposal, it was overwhelmingly rejected by the Greek Cypriots in a referendum. This rejection set the stage for further divisions on the island, and though years have passed, the plan remains a source of contention. Its rumored reintroduction raises alarms, particularly for Turkish Cypriots who fear it could undermine their sovereignty.

 

Over the years, the dynamic has shifted as Turkish Cypriots have grown stronger and more self-reliant, adopting a clear political directive favoring a two-state solution. Federalism, once entertained as a possibility, is now seen for what it truly represents—a mechanism for Greek Cypriot domination and subjugation of Turkish Cypriot identity. Turkish Cypriots are no longer interested in pursuing this outdated model and instead demand recognition of their sovereignty and the right to self-determination.

 

The United States’ Latest Moves

According to Professor Dr. Emin Gürses, the U.S. is actively promoting the revival of the Annan Plan by offering economic incentives to Türkiye. Gürses claims, “The Americans are saying, ‘Let’s bring back the Annan Plan, unite with the Greek Cypriots, and we’ll give you whatever amount of money you want in return.’” Such offers highlight the geopolitical maneuvering behind the scenes but pose significant risks to the Turkish Cypriot side, as they suggest a compromise that could jeopardize their autonomy.

 

After decades of forced economic sanctions and strangulation, this attempt to 'destroy' the Turkish Cypriot choice of sovereignty and self-determination is a profound disrespect for their identity and years of struggle under the Greek Cypriot regime. Furthermore, after decades of forced economic sanctions and strangulation, this attempt to 'destroy' the Turkish Cypriot choice of sovereignty and self-determination is a profound disrespect for their identity and years of struggle under the Greek Cypriot regime.

Israel’s Strategic Visit

Amid these developments, Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s recent visit to the Greek Cypriot administration has not gone unnoticed. Meeting with Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides, Herzog discussed energy and security cooperation. This visit signals potential new alliances in the Eastern Mediterranean, centering on the region’s rich energy resources and strategic importance.

 

This collaboration comes at a controversial time for Israel, with the International Criminal Court (ICC) issuing arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over alleged war crimes during the conflict in Gaza. Despite these grave allegations, and Israel's recent legislative efforts to boycott and avoid The Hague altogether, the state continues to forge partnerships with Southern Cyprus.

 

This alliance is a cloaked indication of Israeli support for the Greek Cypriots against Türkiye, particularly given the looming tensions between Israel and Türkiye over Gaza and disagreement over Syria.

 

Such actions emphasize the double standards in global diplomacy, where a state accused of criminal actions can ally with another regime to the detriment of Turkish Cypriot rights and sovereignty.

 

The Turkish Cypriot Standpoint

Hüseyin Macit Yusuf, a former advisor to the late TRNC Founding President Rauf Denktaş, has emphasized the importance of steadfastness in the face of Western schemes. “What’s crucial is that we do not waver from our current policies,” Yusuf stated, underlining that a two-state solution remains the only viable path forward.

 

The push for recognition of the TRNC has gained significant momentum in recent years. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has called for the recognition of the TRNC three times at the United Nations, emphasizing the need for justice and equality on the island.

 

Similarly, Türkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan recently visited the TRNC, reiterating this call and framing it as a crucial part of Türkiye’s diplomatic agenda. TRNC President Ersin Tatar has declared this political directive as a cornerstone of their strategy, firmly advocating for a two-state solution as the only path to a sustainable and fair resolution.

 

Military Build-Up in Southern Cyprus

Adding to tensions, the U.S. recently lifted its arms embargo on Southern Cyprus and increased its military presence there. Yusuf warns that these developments could transform Southern Cyprus into a de facto U.S. military base. “Soon, they will be using Cyprus as a full-fledged military hub,” he predicted, raising questions about the implications for the region’s stability.

 

In addition, according to an article in the Cyprus Mail, UN Secretary-General António Guterres recently raised serious concerns about Greek Cypriot authorities disguising military positions as civilian facilities, calling it a dangerous violation that endangers civilians and undermines peacekeeping efforts. He specifically cited a research institution near the buffer zone, instructed to incorporate military-grade firing ports into its walls. Guterres urged respect for the buffer zone’s integrity to prevent further escalations.

 

TCE Conclusion: Upholding Justice for Turkish Cypriots

The latest developments in Cyprus underscore the island's immense geopolitical importance and the enduring resilience of the Turkish Cypriot people. Their steadfastness remains pivotal in securing lasting peace and stability, particularly in the face of attempts to erode their sovereignty.

 

 Turkish Cypriots have repeatedly demonstrated their commitment to justice and equality, despite decades of systemic isolation and marginalization.

For peace to prevail, the international community must move beyond outdated frameworks and recognize the TRNC's rightful claims as an independent state. This recognition is not only a matter of justice but a necessary step toward ensuring that Turkish Cypriots achieve the dignity and equality they have long been denied.

 

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References

- Aydınlık Newspaper, "ABD Annan Planı İçin Harekete Geçti," January 9, 2025.
- Cyprus Mail, "Guterres Criticizes Military Encroachments in Buffer Zone," December 15, 2024.
- Statement by ELAM on Federalism, reported in Kathimerini, November 2024.
- ICC announcement on Netanyahu, The Guardian, October 2024.
- Hakan Fidan’s statements during TRNC visit, reported by Anadolu Agency, October 2024.
- President Erdoğan’s UN speech, September 2024.