Today marks 51 years since the second phase of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus, known as Attila II, which took place in the summer of 1974. The military operation, which began on 14 August and lasted just three days, saw Turkish forces capture further territory including the cities of Famagusta and Morphou—cementing the division of the island that persists to this day.
The second phase followed the collapse of peace talks in Geneva, which Turkey is accused of using as a smokescreen while secretly preparing for renewed hostilities. Despite the United Nations Security Council Resolution 353, issued on 20 July 1974, which called for an immediate ceasefire and an end to foreign intervention in Cyprus, the military operation proceeded.
At 3:00 a.m. on 14 August, Turkish Foreign Minister Turan Güneş is reported to have made a coded call to Prime Minister Bülent Ecevit, saying, “Ayşe can go on holiday”—a phrase signalling the green light for renewed military action.
What followed was a swift and brutal advance. Turkish tanks and troops pushed east towards Famagusta and west towards Morphou, backed by heavy armour and air support. Within 72 hours, by the evening of 16 August, Turkish forces had successfully executed their plan, reaching their targets and effectively creating the Attila Line, which still divides the island.
Despite fierce resistance—including the battle at the Greek Cypriot ELDYK military camp—Turkey’s overwhelming military advantage in both manpower and equipment allowed it to achieve its objectives.
By the end of Attila II, Turkey had taken control of approximately 36% of Cypriot territory. Around 200,000 Greek Cypriots were displaced from their homes, many of whom remain refugees in their own country to this day. Widespread reports of atrocities, including massacres and acts of violence, accompanied the military campaign.
The second phase of the invasion marked the culmination of the Cypriot tragedy, the consequences of which remain deeply felt.
Source: CNA
Feature photo source: Lobby for Cyprus blog
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