52nd anniversary of the second phase of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus

August 14, 2026, marks the 52nd anniversary of the second phase of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus, an event initiated on August 14, 1974, following the collapse of peace negotiations in Geneva. Known as 'Attila 2', the military operation saw Turkish forces advance across the island, occupying the majority of the Mesaoria plain, the city of Famagusta, the Karpas Peninsula, and part of the Morphou region. This advancement took place in violation of UN Security Council Resolution 353, which had demanded an immediate ceasefire.

The operation was triggered by the coded message 'Ayse can go on vacation', sent by Turkish Foreign Minister Turan Gunes to Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit. The three-day offensive effectively resulted in the Turkish occupation of approximately 37% of the island’s territory, leading to the displacement of thousands of Greek Cypriots and the permanent division of the island. To this day, large portions of Famagusta remain under military control, fenced off and deserted.

Commemorative events across Cyprus reflect on this history as a profound national tragedy. Political leaders and citizens continue to advocate for the reunification of the country and the restoration of human rights, emphasizing that the occupation remains an unresolved issue for future generations.