Turkish Invasion of Cyprus

Setting the scene

Turkey invaded Cyprus on July 20, 1974, following a Greek-backed coup that overthrew Cypriot President Makarios. Turkey, citing its role as a guarantor power under the 1960 independence treaties, sent 40,000 troops to protect Turkish Cypriots. The invasion came five days after the coup.

What happened

Turkish forces captured 37% of the island in two offensives in July and August. The invasion displaced 200,000 Greek Cypriots from the north and 50,000 Turkish Cypriots from the south, creating a divided island. The UN established a buffer zone, the Green Line, still patrolled today. The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus declared independence in 1983, recognized only by Turkey.

Why it still matters

The invasion remains unresolved, with Cyprus divided for 50 years. It led to Greece and Turkey nearly going to war and strained NATO. The invasion demonstrated the limits of international law and the lasting consequences of partition. July 20, 1974, created Europe's last divided capital, Nicosia.

Background

The island remains divided.