Nicosia: Fifty-one years have passed since the second phase of the barbaric Turkish invasion in Cyprus, known as Operation Attila II, in the summer of 1974. The second phase of the invasion followed the collapse of the peace talks in Geneva, which Turkey used as a pretext, having already transferred additional armed forces onto the island.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the second phase lasted just three days, during which Turkey occupied the cities of Famagusta and Morphou. This occurred despite UN Security Council Resolution 353 of 20 July, which called for an immediate ceasefire and an end to foreign military intervention in Cyprus. On August 13, rumors about an imminent new Turkish advance were rampant, and at 3 a.m. on August 14, Turkish Foreign Minister Turan Gnes communicated in code with Prime Minister Ecevit, signaling the start of the second phase.
The plan was executed swiftly, with Turkish tanks advancing in two directions towards Famagusta in the east and Morphou in the west. By 6 p.m. on Aug
ust 16, Turkish forces had reached both cities, effectively establishing the Attila Line. Reinforced with tanks and air support, the Turkish troops advanced from the Kyrenia bridgehead, overcoming resistance such as the battle at the ELDYK camp due to their overwhelming superiority in military equipment and personnel.
By the end of Operation Attila II on August 16, Turkey had occupied approximately 36% of Cypriot territory, creating the dividing line that remains to this day. The operation resulted in the displacement of approximately 200,000 Greek Cypriots and was marked by widespread massacres and violence. Turkey, with Operation Attila II, completed its plan to partition the island, a strategy that was later revealed to have been developed in consultation with then American Secretary of State, Henry Kissinger.
On this somber anniversary, the people of Cyprus and their leaders reflect with pain and anger, pledging to continue their struggle for liberation and reunification.