Summary of "CANLI YAYIN | KKTC'nin Cumhurbaşkanı Belli Oldu! Seçimi Farkla Kazandı İşte KKTC Seçim Sonuçları"

TRNC Presidential Election and Regional Developments

The live broadcast covers the recent presidential election results in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), geopolitical developments in Cyprus and the Eastern Mediterranean, and ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, particularly the Israel-Gaza situation.

Key Points on TRNC Presidential Elections

Election Outcome: Tufan Erhürman was elected as the 9th President of the TRNC with approximately 62% voter turnout. He is known for supporting a federated solution to the Cyprus issue.
Political Context: The main contenders were Ersin Tatar, the incumbent president advocating a two-state solution supported by Turkey, and Erhürman, who favors federation. Despite Erhürman’s victory, Turkish officials emphasize that Turkey’s Cyprus policy will remain unchanged.
Reactions: The election process was calm and orderly with no major public objections reported. However, some political figures like MHP leader Devlet Bahçeli questioned the low turnout and called for the TRNC parliament to convene urgently.
Challenges in TRNC: Panelists highlighted political instability, economic difficulties, infrastructure needs (energy, water, internet), and the importance of integrating education and intelligence with Turkey. They stressed the need to move beyond viewing TRNC as a “backyard” or “gambling paradise” and to develop its economic and social potential.
Federation vs. Two-State Debate: The discussion underscored skepticism about the feasibility of a federation, noting that the Greek Cypriot side largely rejects it. The two-state solution, though politically promoted by some, lacks international legal support. The panelists agreed that Turkey’s strategic presence and sovereignty in Northern Cyprus will continue.

Geopolitical and Security Issues in Cyprus and the Eastern Mediterranean

Israeli Influence: Israel has deepened military and economic ties with the Greek Cypriot administration in Southern Cyprus, including arms sales, military exercises, and significant real estate investments (notably about 4,000 properties owned by Israelis). Southern Cyprus functions as a strategic base for Israeli military operations in the region, including airstrikes on Gaza and Iran.
Military Presence and Alliances: The island hosts military bases and activities involving the US, UK, France, Greece, and Israel. France recently opened a military base, signaling increased interest. NATO membership for the Greek Cypriot side is a contentious issue that Turkey opposes and would veto.
Energy and Maritime Jurisdiction: Cyprus’s location is crucial due to Eastern Mediterranean energy resources. Turkey has made maritime agreements with Syria and Libya to counterbalance Greek Cypriot and Israeli claims, which exclude the Turkish Cypriot administration.
European Union and Recognition Issues: The EU’s recognition of Southern Cyprus and the embargoes on TRNC remain major obstacles. Panelists criticized the EU’s double standards and emphasized the need for Turkey and TRNC to assert their rights more strongly.

Israel-Gaza Conflict and Regional Dynamics

Ceasefire Violations: Despite a ceasefire agreement, Israel continues military operations in Gaza, causing increasing casualties. The ceasefire is fragile, with ongoing violations and tensions over hostage exchanges.
Israeli Politics: Prime Minister Netanyahu, facing elections in November 2026, remains a dominant figure with significant public support despite military setbacks. Opposition parties are fragmented and unlikely to unseat him soon.
US Involvement: The US is reportedly displeased with Netanyahu’s handling of the ceasefire and may consider direct intervention or increased pressure on Israel to stabilize the situation.
Hamas Position: Hamas expresses willingness for a ceasefire but remains firm on retaining arms and autonomy, complicating peace efforts.
Broader Regional Impact: The conflict is linked to wider geopolitical tensions involving Iran, Syria, Egypt, and other Middle Eastern actors. Israel’s military use of Southern Cyprus as a base is part of a broader strategic posture in the region.

Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and Syrian Army Integration

SDF Negotiations: The SDF, a Kurdish-led militia in northeastern Syria, has expressed readiness to integrate into the Syrian Army while seeking to preserve some autonomy and identity.
Challenges: The process is complex, with military and political negotiations ongoing. The existence of female brigades and “field commands” reflects PKK influences and raises questions about the future structure of Syrian military forces.
Syrian Government Stance: Syrian officials support integration but emphasize the need to dismantle PKK/YPG structures outside state control.

Overall Analysis

The TRNC election signals continuity in Turkey’s strategic approach to Cyprus, emphasizing sovereignty and security over federation prospects.
Cyprus remains a focal point of regional power struggles involving Turkey, Greece, Israel, and Western powers, with military and economic competition intensifying.
The Israel-Gaza conflict remains unresolved with ongoing violence, political uncertainty in Israel, and international concern.
The evolving situation in Syria, particularly the SDF’s integration, will impact regional stability and Turkey’s security calculations.

Presenters and Contributors

Dilara Sayan – Host
Hasan Uylaş – Ankara Representative, Haber Global
Prof. Dr. Yaşar Hacı Salihoğlu – Istanbul Studio
Dr. Eray Güçler – Istanbul Studio
Prof. Dr. Halim Kazan – Istanbul Studio
Faik Tuna – Istanbul MP
Assoc. Prof. Levent – Ankara Studio
Ersin Oral – Ankara Studio

Additional contributions came from political figures and Turkish officials such as Devlet Bahçeli (MHP Chairman), Cevdet Yılmaz (Deputy Prime Minister), Ömer Çelik (AK Party Spokesperson), Burhanettin Duran (Communications Head), and others.