In a pointed message to Athens, Turkey has responded to Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’ remarks at the NATO summit in Ankara regarding Turkey’s longstanding declaration of casus belli — a legal justification for war — over potential Greek military actions in the Aegean.
Turkish Defense Ministry Reaffirms Position
The Turkish Ministry of National Defense issued a statement emphasizing that Turkey “is not a threat to anyone who does not pose a threat to us.” The statement underscores Ankara’s commitment to regional peace and stability, as well as its preference for resolving outstanding disputes through “constructive dialogue” and good-neighborly relations.
It also calls for restraint in rhetoric that could escalate tensions, noting such caution would positively impact bilateral ties. The statement concludes with a reiterated stance: “The Turkish Armed Forces are not a threat to anyone who does not threaten them.”
Context: Mitsotakis’ NATO Remarks
Turkey’s response follows Mitsotakis’ comments at the NATO summit, where he reaffirmed Greece’s position that the concept of casus belli — which Turkey maintains against Greece over issues including territorial waters and airspace — is incompatible with the principles of good-neighborly relations and peaceful coexistence.