22.01.2026 12:40
The Ministry of National Defense made a statement regarding the despicable attack on the Turkish flag at the Nusaybin border, saying, "The attack on our flag is an organized provocation targeting the sensitivities of our nation. The perpetrators of the incident have been identified by the relevant institutions of our state, and necessary actions are being taken." Additionally, an administrative investigation has been initiated regarding the military personnel on duty at the border.
The Ministry of National Defense held its Weekly Press Briefing Meeting. The Press and Public Relations Advisor and Spokesperson of the Ministry, Rear Admiral Zeki Aktürk, responded to current issues during the weekly press briefing.
In a statement regarding the attack on the Turkish flag in Nusaybin, it was stated, "This is an organized provocation targeting the sensitivities of our nation. The perpetrators of the incident have been identified by the relevant institutions of our state, and necessary actions are being taken."
COUNTER-TERRORISM
Aktürk made the following statements regarding the developments:
Within the scope of the duties and activities carried out by our Turkish Armed Forces for the peace, security, and stability of our country, in the past week; 3 PKK terrorists have surrendered, and efforts to detect and destroy mines, improvised explosive devices, caves, shelters, and hideouts have continued both within and beyond our borders to establish permanent security. Additionally, with the destruction of 5 kilometers of tunnels in the last week, 93% (450 km) of the tunnel networks identified in Manbij have been successfully destroyed, bringing the total length of tunnels destroyed in the Syrian Operation Areas to 752 kilometers (Tel Rıfat: 302 / Manbij: 450).
BORDER SECURITY
In our borders, which are protected by an internationally standardized security system established under challenging climatic and terrain conditions, throughout the week; 124 individuals were apprehended, including 1 member of a terrorist organization. Since January 1, the number of individuals caught attempting to cross our borders illegally has reached 346, and together with the 1,976 individuals prevented, the total number of people stopped this year has reached 3,528.
On this occasion, we once again commemorate our martyrs with mercy and gratitude on the 8th anniversary of the Olive Branch Operation, which was carried out to disrupt the terrorist corridor intended to be established in the south of our country and to ensure the security of our borders and the local population.
THE LATEST SITUATION IN SYRIA
The Syrian Government is conducting counter-terrorism operations along a line extending from Aleppo to other regions.
The aim of these operations is to establish public order and ensure the safety of its citizens.
In this context, it is critically important for the SDF to initiate integration by unconditionally adhering to the March 10 and January 18 Agreements, as it is essential for achieving lasting stability in Syria.
Our country will continue to support the fight against terrorist organizations and the enhancement of defense capacity based on the principle of "One State, One Army," in line with the unity and territorial integrity of Syria.
REGARDING THE INCIDENT ON THE NUSAYBIN BORDER LINE
The illegal border crossing attempt by a group of sympathizers of a terrorist organization and the attack on our flag located in the former customs area in Nusaybin is an organized provocation targeting the sensitivities of our nation. The perpetrators of the incident have been identified by the relevant institutions of our state, and necessary actions are being taken. Additionally, as with every incident, an administrative investigation regarding this incident has been immediately initiated.
OUR AIR FORCE COMMANDER'S VISIT TO QATAR
On January 18-19, 2026, a tripartite meeting was held with the participation of the Commander of the Royal Air Force of the United Kingdom, hosted by the Commander of the Qatari Air Force, to discuss the procurement process of Typhoon aircraft.
During the meeting, the training processes prior to the procurement of the aircraft and other necessary steps were discussed, and negotiations are continuing positively.
THE STATUS OF THE SULEYMAN SHAH TOMB
We are closely monitoring the ongoing developments in Syria. Necessary actions will be taken regarding this matter if suitable conditions arise in the field.