Turkish AKP spokesperson calls for caution in the Aegean following Mitsotakis visit

On September 15, 2026, Omer Celik, spokesperson for Turkey's ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP), issued a formal call for restraint regarding activities in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean. His comments followed the recent visit of Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to the island of Kastellorizo, which Celik characterized as a provocative action during a period of international instability. He cautioned that Turkey’s diplomatic approach should not be interpreted as a sign of weakness.

In the same briefing, Celik criticized the United States' decision to extend the lifting of the arms embargo on the Republic of Cyprus. He reaffirmed Ankara's commitment to protecting the rights and security of Turkish Cypriots, emphasizing continued Turkish involvement in the region despite international calls for a resolution based on United Nations resolutions. Celik's remarks reflect long-standing tensions between Athens and Ankara over territorial claims and the political status of the island of Cyprus. The Turkish leadership continues to frame its regional presence as a necessary measure for ensuring the security of the self-proclaimed state in the northern part of the island, which lacks international recognition.