Hulusi Akar, former Minister of Defense of Turkey and current head of the National Defense Committee of the Turkish Parliament as a deputy of the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP), made provocative statements regarding regional issues. He mentioned that Turkish soldiers could swim to the Greek island of Kastellorizo, a mere 1,950 meters away from the Turkish coast, highlighting Turkey's strong national stance on Cyprus and asserting Turkey's intention to expand collaboration with Syria if stability is achieved there.
Akar emphasized that Turkey has been exercising its sovereign rights in its seas and airspace and asserted the country's commitment to these rights. He described Cyprus as a national issue for Turkey, insisting that they have fulfilled and will continue to fulfill their responsibilities as a guarantor according to international agreements. Akar argued that the longstanding negotiations over Cyprus have reached an end, supporting the notion of a "Turkish Republic of Cyprus."
In addition, Akar criticized the United States for Turkey's exclusion from the F-35 fighter jet program due to its purchase of Russian S-400 missile systems, and he reaffirmed Turkey's capacity and intent to produce and sell its own weapons to allied countries.
Akar also expressed willingness to enhance cooperation with Syria in areas like maritime jurisdiction and transportation, provided Syria achieves peace and stability.
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