Turkey and the Occupied Territories: Their Significance in the Geopolitical Landscape
By Constantinos Kyprios*
Turkey’s persistent refusal to reach a solution to the Cyprus issue has now lasted for decades. Officially, Ankara claims that its actions aim to “protect the rights” of the Turkish Cypriots. However, the reality is far more complex and closely tied to the geopolitical advantages offered by control of the occupied territories.
First, Turkey secures a significant strategic advantage through the geographical position of the occupied zone. The Pentadaktylos mountain range and the surrounding areas function as a natural military stronghold, shielding Turkey’s southern ports—including the port of Ceyhan, where the pipeline from Baku terminates. As a result, the likelihood of a direct military threat against Turkey is greatly reduced, while the presence of military installations in the occupied areas (such as air defense systems and air bases) further reinforces the region as a secure zone.
Second, the occupied territories provide Turkey with a stable strategic foothold in the Eastern Mediterranean. From there, it can exert pressure and project influence along the coasts of Lebanon, Israel, and even Egypt. Air bases can be used for patrol missions or offensive operations, while the port of Famagusta serves as an additional tool for projecting power. Thus, maintaining control over the occupied areas aligns with Ankara’s aspiration to present itself as a leading power in the Eastern Mediterranean.
In this context, the occupied territories serve Turkey in a way similar to how Crete serves Greece: as a critical strategic point shaping the regional balance of power. Cyprus therefore becomes a decisive factor in the geopolitical contest for dominance in the Eastern Mediterranean. Believing that control of the occupied areas strengthens its position as a dominant force, Turkey shows little willingness to accept a solution that would undermine its expansionist advantages.
For this reason, Greece must act with great prudence, leveraging strong diplomatic and military support. The goal is not only to secure a just and viable solution for Cyprus, but also to counter Turkey’s aggression and revisionist ambitions in the region.
Constantinos Kyprios
Strategic Analyst
