President Erdoğan's strong response to the allegations regarding the LGS: There is only one statement, and that is hostility towards imam hatips.

21.07.2025 13:20

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan answered journalists' questions on the plane following his visit to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. Responding strongly to the discussions that arose over claims that a large portion of the 719 students who scored full marks in the High School Transition System (LGS) came from imam hatip schools, Erdoğan stated, "The only explanation for this campaign is animosity towards imam hatip schools."

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan went to Cyprus to attend the ceremonies held on the occasion of the 20th of July Peace and Freedom Day and the 51st anniversary of the Cyprus Peace Operation. After his visit to the TRNC, Erdoğan held an interview with journalists.

"THE CYPRUS PEACE OPERATION HAS DROWNED THE DREAM OF 'ENOSIS'"

Highlights from President Erdoğan's statements are as follows; On the occasion of the 51st anniversary of the Cyprus Peace Operation, we have completed our visit to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus at the invitation of President Ersin Tatar. By participating in the celebrations of the 20th of July Peace and Freedom Day in Nicosia, we once again shared the enthusiasm and joy of our Turkish Cypriot brothers. The Cyprus Peace Operation we carried out 51 years ago has drowned the dream of 'enosis' within the framework of our rights and obligations arising from international agreements. Our heroic Armed Forces, with the support of our Turkish Cypriot brothers and fighters, have brought peace and tranquility to the island by putting an end to the bloodshed and tears that have flowed since 1963. Indeed, there has not been a drop of blood shed on the island for half a century. This environment of peace will continue for many more years with Turkey's resolute support. The Turkish Cypriots will also live freely in their homeland forever. During my visit, I also met with the President of the TRNC, Mr. Ersin Tatar. We reiterated our support for the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.

"WE CONTINUE OUR EFFORTS FOR THE PROSPERITY OF OUR TURKISH CYPRIOT BROTHERS"

We confirmed that we stand behind the vision of a two-state solution in Cyprus and the reality that there are two separate peoples and two separate states on the island. In the meantime, we continue our efforts to ensure that our Turkish Cypriot brothers live in prosperity, and we will continue to do so. Through economic and financial cooperation agreements, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is being supported in every area it needs. We held the opening and groundbreaking ceremonies of some facilities at the Republic Campus, which was put into service in May. The New Nicosia State Hospital, for which we laid the foundation, will hopefully be one of the largest health investments on the island. With the opening of the Nicosia North Ring Road Interchange and the 4.5-kilometer section, we have completed a significant part of the total 21-kilometer project. This project, completed in less than a year, will not only reduce traffic congestion in Nicosia but also accelerate the connection of Güzelyurt and Lefke to Ercan International Airport. The New Maraş Health Center, which we opened today, will also facilitate access to health services for our local community in an area of one thousand square meters. As witnessed today, we will continue to stand by the Turkish Cypriots in their steps towards a prosperous future, as the Motherland and guarantor. With these thoughts, I would like to once again sincerely congratulate our 20th of July Peace and Freedom Day. The floor is now yours.

"I HAVE NO INTENTION OF VISITING THE SOUTH OF CYPRUS"

Two political parties established in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, the New Cyprus Party and the United Cyprus Party, visited the leader of the Greek Cypriot Administration in Southern Cyprus on the anniversary of the events in which the Greeks massacred Turks in 1958. They requested a population census under UN supervision, the presence of international observers for the October elections, and the complaint of Turkey to international institutions. How did you respond to this visit? The leader of the Greek Cypriot Administration said he would invite you to the South during the EU presidency. If such an invitation comes, would you consider attending?

I have no intention of making such a visit to the South. Because just as they do not recognize the TRNC as a state, we do not recognize Southern Cyprus as a state either. Therefore, there is no place for such a meeting with them in my book. These are marginal initiatives that do not reflect the will of the Turkish Cypriot people. The Turkish Cypriots are a part of us. No one can damage this bond between us; Turkey's heroic sons, who have gone to the island only for peace, cannot be called "occupiers." The Turkish Cypriot people do not even open the discussion about the guarantee of the Motherland Turkey and its legitimate presence on the island. The treachery committed while historical facts and our national memory are evident will certainly be punished by the Turkish Cypriot people at the ballot box. The Greek side has repeatedly shown that it does not want a solution until now. They do not want equality and justice; they want to make the Turkish Cypriots paria in their own homeland. Some oblivious individuals openly support this. The key to a solution in Cyprus is a two-state solution; there is no concession from this. Turkey's Cyprus policy is clear; we will not be part of any process that does not guarantee the sovereign equality and security of the Turkish Cypriot people.

"THERE IS NO CONCESSION IN SYRIA"

As of now, although there is a fragility, a ceasefire has been established. We know that Turkey has made significant contributions to this. The President of Syria, Ahmed Shara, thanked Turkey for these contributions. My question is, what happened during this process? What experiences did Turkey have while taking the initiative in this process? And what are your expectations for the future?

The President of Syria, Ahmed Shara, has maintained a firm stance there. So far, there has been no concession. Israel is constantly trying to set the entire region on fire. In the face of this effort, the process has been cautiously continued with Syria's stance. Syria is said to be controlling the region with about 2,500 troops. With the latest steps taken, they have also secured control. Thus, a dominance has been established in the South. The Syrian people, with all their segments, are definitely not considering falling for these games, having learned lessons from the pains they have experienced in the past. They are working to ensure reconciliation between the Druze and other segments. In my opinion, the President of Syria, Ahmed Shara, has taken a very positive step here. In the phone conversation I had with him, we discussed this stance. We learned what his requests from us are and what they are not. We also told them that we would provide all kinds of support.

"ONE OF THE THREE BRANCHES OF THE DRUZE IS MOVING WITH ISRAEL"

Our Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan is in constant communication with the Special Representative and the Foreign Minister of the United States. Similarly, our MIT President İbrahim Kalın and our Minister of National Defense Yaşar Güler are also in talks with their counterparts. Recently, the permission was granted for this 2,500-strong lightly armed force to go to Sweida.

Meetings have been ongoing in Amman for two days. Tribal leaders, Jordanians, and the U.S. Special Representative are in constant contact with us. The area around Suwayda is surrounded. There is a problem regarding whether the forces can enter or not. Currently, two of the three branches of the Druze are extremely cooperative, while one branch is acting in coordination with Israel. They do not give up on causing disruption. Therefore, conflicts can occasionally continue inside. The police cannot enter, the military cannot enter; they are around the city. At least they have prevented elements from coming in from outside. In the ongoing negotiations in Amman, except for that one Druze faction we mentioned, the parties have voluntarily agreed to adhere to the ceasefire. A highly constructive atmosphere has actually emerged regarding the Syrian issue. It is necessary to effectively communicate to the world how Israel is trying to disrupt this stability project while actors who cannot come together are gathering on the Syrian issue. We believe we are conveying this message. The Americans especially understand that they need to take more ownership of this issue. The fundamental problem is the conflict between the parties. But the even greater strategic problem is Israel's attempt to use this conflict as an excuse to invade the region. As you know, Israel does not want stability in the region. It believes that a unified Syria would not be good for itself and continues with such provocations.

"YOU WILL WITNESS PROGRESS IN THE PARLIAMENT SOON IN THE GOAL OF A 'TERROR-FREE TURKEY'"

The first serious step has been taken on the path towards the goal of a "Terror-Free Turkey." Weapons have been burned. Will this continue? How will it continue? Is everything going smoothly in the "Terror-Free Turkey" process? Is the organization's Syrian branch, the PYD, resisting a bit in getting involved in the process? What are your thoughts on this issue?

We continue to take steps to achieve our goal of a "Terror-Free Turkey." Progress continues in line with this ultimate goal. We are extremely careful to ensure that the process is not affected by provocations. We are on alert against all sabotage and structures that could disrupt our goal of a "Terror-Free Turkey." As you know, the disarmament has begun. Our relevant colleagues are following up and facilitating contacts. As far as I know, discussions regarding the commission have reached the final stage. You will soon witness progress in the Parliament.

"IMRALI HAS PROVIDED ALL KINDS OF SUPPORT ON THIS ISSUE"

We are determined to build a future without terrorism. We know very clearly what we will do, how we will do it, and ultimately where we will end up to achieve our goal. The events happening in our region once again demonstrate the correctness of this step we have taken. Right now, Imrali has provided all kinds of support on this issue. This aspect of the work is very, very important. The stance of the YPG can change at any moment. How this approach will reflect on the SDG, which is an extension of these, is also important. In recent developments, the stance of Syrian President Shara has, in my opinion, eliminated their negative coming together. We are determined; we will not leave Ahmed Shara alone in Syria. We do not want the fragmentation of Syria; we see the reconstitution of Syria as positive for our country as well. Because the reconstitution of Syria will positively affect its relations with us. We see that the voluntary return of Syrians in our country to their homeland has begun. Previously, there was a hopelessness that "they will not return." Now they have started to return voluntarily. We will provide all kinds of support to accelerate voluntary returns. With the acceleration of these returns, we want Syria to normalize quickly, and we want to secure our South.

"WE ARE PLANNING AND QUICKLY TAKING STEPS THAT WILL STRENGTHEN OUR POWER"

Turkey continues to make a difference in the world with its initiatives in the defense industry. Will there be new good news in our domestic and national defense systems in the upcoming period?

When we came to power, we made intense efforts to compensate for the time Turkey lost in the defense industry. The effective steps we took and the seeds we planted have produced fruitful results. The point we have reached is significant, but it is not sufficient for us. We are planning and quickly taking steps that will strengthen our power. The infrastructure moves of our defense industry companies and investments in nanotechnology facilities are ongoing. Our goal is to be completely self-sufficient in the defense field. The slogan "Fully Independent Turkey" cannot be realized without such visionary steps and hard work. We must act with the awareness that "better is always possible, and we can achieve it." As you know, we made the KAAN and walked alongside it on the runway with a backup pilot. We have made and are making AKINCI, ALTAY, HÜRJET, ATAK, TCG ANADOLU, and many more. We have achievements as BAYKAR. We have achievements outside of BAYKAR.

"WE ARE CURRENTLY UNABLE TO MEET THE ORDERS"

With unmanned aerial vehicles, Turkey is currently a country that is making a name for itself in the world. This is a very important step for us. On the other hand, when you look at armored carriers, we are in a very good position. Orders are coming in one after another. At sea, the same applies… Turkey is in a very important position with frigates. Orders are continuously coming in. We are currently unable to meet the orders. We have serious orders from many countries, including Pakistan. As you know, we made our multi-purpose amphibious assault ship TCG ANADOLU. Now we have talked to the Spaniards to make the second one, which is a higher version of it. They say, "We are definitely on board." Hopefully, we plan to complete this new aircraft carrier in 2-3 years and continue on with it. We discussed this issue with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez. He says, "We are on board." We hope to achieve this with the Spaniards. Thus, we will have completed the upper segment of our ship. Currently, we are taking steps regarding the acquisition of jet aircraft with the UK and Germany. The British and Germans are approaching positively on this issue. I believe we will acquire our jet aircraft as soon as possible. In my discussions with UK Prime Minister Mr. Keir Starmer and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, I saw that they viewed the issue positively, and hopefully, we will take these steps as well.

"THE POLITICAL BARRIERS IMPOSED ON TURKEY BY THE EU MUST BE REMOVED URGENTLY"

If the "Terror-Free Turkey" process continues successfully, some arguments that have been put forward as obstacles in negotiations with the European Union will also disappear. In this case, do you expect developments such as the continuation of negotiations and visa liberalization?

There should not be a single day of waiting to revitalize and advance Turkey's membership negotiations. These developments need to happen immediately without waiting for any new steps. We tell all our counterparts in the European Union that we strongly maintain our goal of full membership. When the Union addresses this issue strategically and visionarily, there is no obstacle in front of them to take immediate action.

Political barriers imposed against Turkey must be urgently lifted. We expect EU countries to maintain relations with a fair and equitable approach. We hope they understand that it is not possible to advance relations with the ambiguous attitude we have seen many times so far. Considering the events in Europe and its surroundings, and the differences of opinion within the EU, the Union's need for a dynamic and solution-oriented member like Turkey will become evident. As I have said before, Turkey is the last exit before the bridge for the EU. The world is changing, and Europe has already changed. Breaking free from the influence of outdated, obsessive political understandings could be a move that embraces the new era for the European Union and carries the Union into the future. We, as Turkey, are ready for full membership.

"WE HAVE NEVER REMOVED GAZA FROM OUR AGENDA AND WE WILL NOT"

I want to ask about Gaza. From time to time, we hear news that "we are close to a ceasefire," but there is still no ceasefire. Recently, the Al-Qassam Brigades said, "We are ready for a prolonged war of attrition." Last night, the Ministry of Health in Gaza stated, "As of this morning, all ambulance sirens will sound for people who have died of hunger." It is reported that 18 people have died of hunger in the last 24 hours. On one hand, Israel is calculating how to send those living in Gaza to other countries. They recently hit a church as well. What would you like to say about the steps taken by the genocidal Israeli administration?

The people of Gaza have not surrendered so far, and I believe they will not surrender. Israel, on the other hand, is attacking everywhere like a crazed monster, and hopefully, it will become a victim of its own greed. We have never removed Gaza from our agenda and we will not. We will continue to stand by Gaza. We are constantly monitoring the steps taken by the United States in this regard. Our Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan is in constant contact with the U.S. Secretary of State. The international community, which continuously supports Israel, is no longer in a position to hide anything. Everyone agrees on what needs to be done. They are in a spiral of desperation. They are seriously pressuring for a ceasefire. There are currently three issues in the ceasefire negotiations. The first is: Where will Israeli soldiers be stationed after the ceasefire, in which withdrawal areas? The second is: The parties have not yet reached a complete agreement on "how food aid will be distributed." The third is: If a 60-day ceasefire is achieved, Israel needs to commit to continuing the ceasefire after the hostages are released. This is Hamas's demand. Israel does not want to do this. The U.S., Egypt, and Qatar, with our support, are trying to find a middle ground. We are in a position where we do not want a situation like this: Hostages are released, a 60-day ceasefire occurs, and after 60 days, we return to the current situation. If a commitment cannot be obtained regarding the permanence of the ceasefire, meaning there is no coercive system, Hamas's acceptance will only be a choice. The choice of whether to die today or die in 60 days. Therefore, there is a serious bargaining process ongoing at this point.

"I BELIEVE WE CAN RESOLVE THE ZANGEZUR ISSUE THROUGH CONSENSUS"

I want to ask a question about the Zangezur Corridor. A proposal has been voiced for the leasing of this corridor to the United States for the first time. I am curious about your views on this, sir.

The Zangezur Corridor will benefit not only Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Turkey but also other countries in the region. We see this route as an extremely important issue in terms of its geopolitical dimension. Indeed, this route will connect geographies beyond our region and will revitalize trade. Our fundamental expectation is for this route to become a symbol of consensus, not a source of conflict. This way, it will create an area of prosperity where regional cooperation prevails. I believe that as regional countries, we can resolve this issue through consensus. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev places great importance on Zangezur. He wants to prepare the route as soon as possible and utilize it for both Azerbaijan and the region. I believe we will solve it together.

"THE COST OF TERRORISM TO OUR COUNTRY EXCEEDS 2 TRILLION DOLLARS"

Your emphasis on the internal front, your goal of a "Terror-Free Turkey," and your call for a "Jerusalem Alliance" stand out as the main axes of Turkey's new roadmap. How will these three topics shape our country in both domestic and foreign policy? What kind of sociocultural contributions will they provide to Turkey's development?

We have put forward a model that will serve as an example for our region and the world. Despite the burning fires of war around us, we prioritize peace and stability under all circumstances. While pursuing such an active policy abroad, we cannot overlook the issues within us. A strong internal front in Turkey will accelerate both social and economic development. I have said this before. The cost of terrorism to our country exceeds 2 trillion dollars. Now, these resources will be spent on more efficient, economically valuable investments. They will go to workers, retirees, civil servants, industrialists, merchants, and farmers. Thus, we will prevent terrorism from finding ground, and we will, God willing, redirect our economic resources from fighting terrorism to production and technology, and we will continue our efforts in this area with great importance. With the infrastructure investments we will make, we will continue on our path without stopping.

STRONG REACTION TO LGS ALLEGATIONS: THERE IS ONLY ONE EXPLANATION, AND THAT IS HOSTILITY TOWARDS IMAM HATIP SCHOOLS

We witnessed the debate over the LGS top scorers, and this situation was perceived as a deliberate attack on Imam Hatip schools. What do you think is behind the opposition's frequent targeting of Imam Hatip schools?

The academic success of Imam Hatip schools is increasing, especially in the fields of science and social sciences. This situation seems to have disturbed some circles. There is only one explanation for the immoral smear campaign that has been ongoing for days; that is hostility towards Imam Hatip schools. It is truly something that cannot be swallowed. A person cannot lie so shamelessly. Why are you insulting these children who have achieved such success in the LGS? Right now, at Kartal Anadolu Imam Hatip and other Imam Hatip schools, how can you target these children with such high success rates through such photographs? It is a great disrespect. The success rate in the LGS cannot be explained by any corruption. "Support has been given from here and there, this has happened, that has happened" – all lies, all slander. These children have achieved their results through their own efforts and intellect. But you see, the efforts of innocent children, who are only 12-13 years old, are being tarnished. Look, when we say "toxic politics," this is exactly what we mean. Politics cannot be done with the understanding of throwing mud and leaving a mark; even if it is done, it cannot be called politics. May God bless their mothers, fathers, and our nation. I would also like to say this: We are addressing the issue of exam security with utmost sensitivity.

Everyone knows how successful Turkey is in terms of exam security. If they have even a shred of dignity, all they need to do is come out and openly apologize to those innocent children and their families whom they lynched on social media. Otherwise, they will continue to be remembered as slanderers.

"WE WILL CONTINUE TO TAKE STEPS TO PROMOTE POPULATION GROWTH"

Sir, you frequently emphasized the importance of having three children during both your Prime Ministership and your Presidency. You have increasingly strengthened this emphasis. Most recently, the 2025 Family Year, followed by the Family and Population 10 Years... What kind of improvement are we aiming for as Turkey at the end of these 10 years?

Currently, our Ministry of Family and Social Services is engaged in intense efforts regarding this issue. Our fertility rate has now fallen slightly below 1.5. This is not a good sign. We came from levels of 3. Our goal was much different. However, as of now, we are not in a good place. What can we do about this? I have instructed our Minister of Family and Social Services, Mahinur Özdemir Göktaş, to intensify her efforts on this matter. We want to increase all our efforts related to this issue. Let's get in touch with all universities. We are in search of "What can we do to start a recovery right now?" The population issue is a strategic matter for our country. As a government, we will continue to take steps to promote population growth. With the right incentives, we have a societal potential that can lead to an increase in fertility again. Our "Family and Population 10 Years" program includes not only financial support but also sociocultural projects that strengthen the family institution. Under the "Family Year" this year, our steps to support the family institution continue unabated. Just a few days ago, we shared with the public the right to part-time work granted to female and male civil servants after childbirth or adoption.