Fifty-one years have passed since the second phase of the barbaric Turkish invasion of Cyprus, known as Attila II, in the summer of '74.
The second phase of the invasion followed the collapse of the peace talks in Geneva, which Turkey used as cover after having already transferred reinforcements to the island, preparing the next strike.
The second phase lasted just three days and Turkey managed to complete its crime by occupying both the city of Famagusta and Morphou with Operation Attila II, despite the fact that UN Security Council Resolution 353 of July 20 demanded an immediate ceasefire and an end to foreign intervention in Cyprus.
On August 13, rumors abound about an imminent new Turkish advance, and at 3 a.m. on August 14, Turkish Foreign Minister Turan Güneş rushes to the phone and asks to be connected to Ankara and Prime Minister Ecevit. He speaks in coded tones:
"Ayse can go on vacation (Ayse is the name of Güneş's daughter).
The message means that the second phase of the invasion can begin immediately.
Soon the chariots set off in two directions, towards Famagusta in the east and Morphou in the west.
Within almost three days, that is, by 6 pm on August 16, the Turkish tanks reached Famagusta and Morphou and thus completed the implementation of their plan to create the Attila Line. The Turkish troops were reinforced with tanks and air support and advanced from the Kyrenia bridgehead. Despite heroic resistance, such as the battle at the ELDYK camp, the Turkish forces managed to achieve their objectives, due to the overwhelming superiority in military equipment and number of soldiers.
With the completion of "Attila II" on August 16, Turkey had occupied approximately 36% of Cypriot territory, creating the dividing line that exists to this day.
Approximately 200.000 Greek Cypriots were displaced from their homes, while widespread massacres and violence occurred.
"Attila II" completed the plan to divide the island, a plan that, as was later revealed, had been elaborated by Turkey in consultation with the US Secretary of State, Henry Kissinger.
"Attila II" marked the culmination of the Cypriot tragedy, with the consequences of the Turkish invasion remaining vivid to this day.
The leadership and people remember today's sad anniversary with pain and anger and, with messages and announcements, assure the continuation of the struggle for liberation and reunification.
Source: KYPE
