The Turkish Ministry of National Defense (MSB) has released a statement regarding the 'Terror-Free Turkey' process, describing it as a strategic vision designed to strengthen national security and contribute to regional stability. The ministry stated that removing terrorism completely and permanently from the agenda will contribute to peace, security, and stability in Turkey and the surrounding region.
According to the ministry, significant success has been achieved in the fight against terrorism through the efforts of security forces and public support. The statement credited martyrs, veterans, and their families for having the largest role in these achievements. The Turkish Armed Forces (TSK) stated it will continue to take all necessary measures to ensure these successes lead to a permanent environment of peace and security.
In the past week, one member of the PKK surrendered, and operations continued in designated areas to detect and destroy caves, shelters, and improvised explosive devices.
Total number of individuals prevented from illegal crossings so far this year, including 924 recently intercepted.
Regarding border security, 490 individuals were apprehended in the last week. Since January 1, 7,443 people have been caught attempting to cross borders through illegal means. Additionally, approximately 8 kilograms of drugs were seized during search activities on the Hakkari border line.
International Commitments and Diplomacy
Turkish F-16 aircraft and personnel completed their transfer to Estonia on July 31 to begin NATO Enhanced Air Policing duties, which run from August 1 until November 30, 2026.
The ministry addressed the situation in Gaza, stating that Israel continues to deliberately sabotage diplomatic efforts for a ceasefire and permanent peace. It reported that an Israeli strike on a tent camp for displaced civilians and a health facility last weekend resulted in the deaths of more than 30 civilians. The ministry stated that these actions constitute a recent example of an approach that disregards international law.
On a bilateral level, Defense Minister Yaşar Güler held a telephone call with the Syrian Defense Minister on August 1 regarding regional security and defense issues. Minister Güler is also scheduled to host the Foreign Minister of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus on August 1.
Military Exercises and Defense Readiness
Several military exercises are underway or scheduled: the Joint Fire Exercise in Slovakia began on July 20, and the Baltic Trust Counter-Drone Exercise in Latvia, which began on August 4, is set to conclude on August 14.
Naval activities include port visits by the Italian Navy vessel San Marco to Antalya between August 2 and August 6. Additionally, the Greek Navy vessel Kountouriotis and the Italian Navy vessel Montecuccoli are scheduled to visit Aksaz from August 4 to August 6 as part of NATO Standing Maritime Group 2 (SNMG-2). The TCG Osmangazi is visiting Livorno, Italy, from August 5 to August 7, while the TCG Oruçreis is visiting Lisbon, Portugal, until August 3 and will visit Civitavecchia, Italy, from August 7 to August 11.
On the domestic front, the Land Forces Command announced the completion of inspection and acceptance processes for various equipment, including the 'Tayfun' Launch, Transport, Loading and Command Control Vehicle, Karinalı Boat, and MPT-76 national infantry rifle. Furthermore, the Air Force Command has received the HGK-84 Precision Guidance Kit and LGK-82/84 Laser Guidance Kit from ASELSAN, as well as SOM-B1T ammunition from Roketsan.
Personnel and Governance
Regarding recruitment,
The 2026 Supreme Military Council meeting, which shapes the TSK command structure, was held on August 4 at the Presidential Complex under the chairmanship of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. The ministry stated that the decisions, announced following the President's approval, are intended for the benefit of the state, the nation, and the Armed Forces.
