Hasipoğlu: The TRNC Is Encircled by Fire

Speaking on the programme Sabah Postası on Kıbrıs Postası TV, Hasipoğlu stressed the growing security risks facing the island and reiterated the importance of Turkey’s active and effective guarantor role.

“Missiles and Bombs Are Exploding Right Next to Us”

Hasipoğlu described the regional situation as deeply concerning: “We are witnessing missiles flying overhead and bombs exploding nearby. As the TRNC, we are inside a ring of fire. The culprit is terrorist Israel — a state that brings death, a disaster for the Middle East, killing our Muslim brothers. The U.S. is openly supporting Israel in this war. It’s alarming to witness such scenes in our region after so many years.”

“Guarantorship Is Our Red Line”

Reaffirming his party’s stance, Hasipoğlu said, “As long as Motherland Turkey is strong and present, nothing will happen to us or to Turkey. Guarantorship is our red line — and the UBP guarantees this. If federation talks resume, one of the conditions will be to remove Turkey from the island. That is unacceptable.”

“Turkey’s Guarantorship Is the TRNC’s Security in a Two-State Solution”

Responding to opposition criticism, Hasipoğlu said, “Turkey’s effective and de facto guarantorship is the assurance of the TRNC in a possible two-state solution. When we speak of sovereignty, some interpret it differently. But we must walk this path together with Turkey — this has always been the UBP’s position.”

“Israel Is Acting Hand-in-Hand With the U.S.”

Hasipoğlu also referenced U.S. politics, particularly a social media post by former President Donald Trump. “Trump told Iran to surrender and claimed to know where Iran’s leader is, though he won’t order an assassination. What kind of president says such things? Israel is acting hand-in-hand with America.”

Tatar's Briefing in Parliament and Opposition Criticism

Referring to President Ersin Tatar’s closed briefing in Parliament, Hasipoğlu stated: “The issue of property was raised. The opposition claims it wasn’t given the chance to ask questions. But Tatar said all MPs had the opportunity to speak — they simply didn’t. The criticism is therefore unfounded.”

“We Will Continue Our International Struggle”

Discussing his recent trip to Baku, Hasipoğlu said: “Our aim is to promote our country. We’re invited to all international meetings. We had the chance to attend gatherings involving leaders and secretaries-general of the Organization of Turkic States. The latest one was held in Shusha. Our international advocacy will continue.”

“Hristodulidis Still Views Us as a Minority”

Commenting on the Cyprus issue, Hasipoğlu accused Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides of failing to genuinely support a federal solution. “I tested him — he still sees us as a minority. Next week, we will travel again, and the property issue will be on the agenda. At the last general assembly, Christodoulides claimed Turkey is the biggest obstacle to a solution and called for a bi-communal federation. But when it was my turn to speak, I was given just 30 seconds.”

Hasipoğlu added: “I told him it’s been 21 years since the Annan Plan — Annan himself said the Greek Cypriots weren’t ready to share the island’s wealth. Have you changed? Are you ready now to lift the embargoes and share power?”

“Christodoulides Has Always Played the Bad Cop at the Table”

“Christodoulides asked me, ‘Which passport did you use to come here? What embargoes are you talking about?’ I replied, ‘I’m talking about solution and shared governance.’ That is his vision of a solution. He has always played the bad cop in negotiations. Offering minority rights to lure us to the table. But our struggle will continue with Turkey, and the Greek Cypriot side fears this.”

“The South Is Attempting to Undermine ECHR Rulings”

On property issues, Hasipoğlu concluded: “For years, we’ve supported every solution plan, yet we’re still discussing Greek Cypriot property claims from before 1974. They refuse to recognise the TRNC but implement ECHR rulings through the Immovable Property Commission, which pays compensation. The South, which is recognised, is instead trying to bypass ECHR procedures.”