06.08.2026 12:21
The Ministry of National Defense stated, "In line with the vision of a Türkiye free of terrorism, completely and permanently removing terrorism from the agenda will make significant contributions not only to our country's but also to our region's peace, security, and stability. The Turkish Armed Forces will continue to take all necessary measures to crown the success achieved in the fight against terrorism with a lasting peace and security environment."
Following the press briefing by the Ministry of National Defense, statements were also made in response to questions asked by journalists.
In the statement made by the Ministry regarding questions about a Terror-Free Turkey, the following expressions were included:
"In the fight against terrorism, which is being carried out with great determination and resolve, significant success has been achieved thanks to the extraordinary efforts of our security forces and the support of our noble nation. In this historic success, the greatest share belongs to our martyrs, our veterans, and their families, who have displayed the noblest example of sacrifice for the homeland.
In line with the Terror-Free Turkey vision, completely and permanently removing terrorism from the agenda will make significant contributions not only to our country's but also to our region's peace, security, and stability.
In this regard, Terror-Free Turkey is a strategic vision that strengthens national security and contributes to regional stability.
Our Turkish Armed Forces will continue to fulfill their duties and responsibilities with determination, as they have done so far, and will continue to take all necessary measures to crown the success achieved in the fight against terrorism with a lasting peace and security environment."
SEEBRIG BRIGADE
In response to questions about the SEEBRIG Brigade, the Ministry gave the following answer:
"In order to contribute to ensuring stability in the Southeastern Europe region and to developing cooperation and good neighborly relations, the Southeastern Europe Brigade (SEEBRIG) was established in 1999.
Our country, which previously hosted the SEEBRIG Headquarters between 2007-2011, will host it for the second time between 2026-2032 (at the 3rd Corps Command General Muharrem Mazlum ISKORA Barracks in Istanbul).
In this context; all vehicles, equipment, and materials in the SEEBRIG Headquarters inventory, located in Kumanovo/North Macedonia, were transported to Istanbul between 19-21 July 2026, and SEEBRIG personnel also gradually moved to Istanbul on the same dates.
The Brigade Headquarters reached full operational capability in Istanbul on 03 August 2026.
Currently, 28 core personnel (12 Turkish / 16 foreign) from 6 countries (Turkey, Albania, Bulgaria, Greece, Romania, North Macedonia) are serving at the SEEBRIG Headquarters. It is planned to hold the Activation, Command Handover, and 27th Anniversary Ceremonies of the SEEBRIG Headquarters together in Istanbul on 27 August 2026, and the headquarters is planned to be officially activated on 31 August 2026."
FIGHT AGAINST TERRORISM
During the weekly press briefing, information was shared about the fight against terrorism and border security.
At the meeting, it was stated that the Turkish Armed Forces continue their activities with determination and resolve against all kinds of risks and threats in order to ensure the security of our country, protect the peace of our nation, and preserve the survival of our state.
In this context, it was emphasized that within the last week, 1 more PKK terrorist surrendered, and efforts to detect and destroy caves, shelters, hideouts, mines, and improvised explosive devices in operation areas continue.
BORDER SECURITY
In line with effective and advanced technology-based measures taken in border security to prevent smuggling, prevent illegal crossings, and increase effectiveness in the fight against terrorism, 490 individuals were caught in the last week.
From January 1 to today, the number of those caught trying to cross our borders illegally has reached 7,443. Along with 924 individuals prevented, the number of people prevented this year has reached 44,802.
Also, this week; approximately 8 kilograms (7,734 grams) of narcotics were seized during search and scanning activities on the Hakkari border line.
CONTRIBUTIONS TO REGIONAL AND GLOBAL PEACE AND STABILITY
During the weekly press briefing, the following information was shared regarding contributions to regional and global peace and stability and Israel:
"Our Turkish Armed Forces continue to contribute to regional and global peace and stability within the scope of bilateral relations and international missions, especially NATO. In this context, within the framework of the NATO Enhanced Air Policing mission, the transfer of our 5 F-16 aircraft, which will serve between August 1 and November 30, 2026, and our personnel on duty, to Estonia was completed on July 31, and our elements started their mission as of August 1."
ISRAEL
"Within the scope of developments in the Middle East; With the aim of ensuring lasting peace and stability in the region, we reiterate the importance of the parties displaying a prudent and responsible attitude in the negotiations being held between the USA and Iran.
On the other hand, Israel, which is the greatest obstacle to the establishment of lasting peace and stability in the region, continues to deliberately sabotage these efforts at a time when diplomatic initiatives for a ceasefire and lasting peace in Gaza are progressing positively."