Turkey invaded Cyprus on July 20, 1974, seizing over 35% of the island’s territory in a two-phase monthlong offensive. The invasion led to the deaths of more than 3,000 people, mainly civilians, and displaced approximately 200,000 Greek Cypriots.
The Turkish military landed in Kyrenia, north of Cyprus, while Ankara’s air forces carried out an aerial assault campaign on several targets, causing widespread devastation and panic. The invasion was part of “Operation Attila,” which Turkey claims was a peaceful intervention aimed at restoring constitutional order and protecting the country’s Turkish Cypriot minority.
Greek Cypriot nationalists had attempted to overthrow President Archbishop Makarios III just five days prior, leading to the deaths of several hundred people in the coup. The Greek Cypriot National Guard, backed by the Greek junta, fought against forces loyal to Cyprus’ democratically elected government, but was unprepared and unable to stop the Turkish advance.
Since 1974, the island has been divided between the internationally recognized Republic of Cyprus, which is a member of the European Union, and the self-declared “Turkish Republic of North Cyprus,” which is recognized only by Turkey. The international community has condemned Turkey’s invasion and occupation, with many arguing that it is time for the country to accept the reality on the ground.
In recent talks in New York, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan reiterated his support for a “two-state solution,” an idea rejected by most Cypriots. The Cyprus issue remains unresolved, with diplomatic efforts failing to produce a lasting solution.
Source: https://www.euronews.com/2025/07/20/cyprus-marks-51-years-since-turkish-invasion-that-led-to-island-nations-partition