In the written statement made by the Ministry of National Defense (MSB), it was emphasized that, within the scope of the operations and measures carried out by the Naval Forces Command in the Black Sea, the duties of reconnaissance and surveillance, outpost and neutralization of identified mines, UAVs, UAVs and found ammunition have continued uninterruptedly since March 26, 2022, following the start of the Russia-Ukraine War. The statement said, “In this context, in order to protect our maritime jurisdiction areas, duties are carried out with 2 frigates, 1 submarine, 1 patrol ship, 1 maritime patrol plane, 1 helicopter, 1 UAV within the scope of the Black Sea Harmony Operation, and 2 mine hunting ships, 1 assault boat, 3 helicopters, 1 SAS team, 1 UAV within the scope of mine surveillance activities. To date, a total of 275 suspicious objects have been detected, among the suspicious objects.” “10 of them were identified as mines, 8 of them were identified as kamikaze UAVs and 11 of them were identified as kamikaze UAVs, and the identified suspicious objects were successfully destroyed by SAS teams.” On the other hand, Minister of National Defense Yaşar Güler had a telephone conversation with Iran’s Deputy Minister of Defense, Brigadier General Seyyid Mecid İbn’ül Riza, yesterday.

Director of Communications Duran spoke at the closing session titled “Forward-Looking Perspectives: Order in the New International System” of the International Strategic Communication Summit (STRATCOM), held in a hotel in Beşiktaş with the theme “Rupture in the International System: Crises, Narratives and the Search for Order” by the Presidency’s Directorate of Communications.

Burhanettin Duran said that they completed STRATCOM 2026 in the past two days with in-depth, thought-provoking and extremely productive discussions that shed light on the most important and vital issues of the age.

Stating that he was pleased to host this important meeting on behalf of the Directorate of Communications and to host such a distinguished global participant community, Duran said, “This summit has gained strength with the contributions of an extremely diverse and competent community, ranging from media and communication professionals to academia, from civil society to various fields. Each of you has played a vital role in shaping a dialogue rich in depth and content.” he said.

Duran pointed out that media organizations and digital platforms have demonstrated an exemplary determination by ensuring that the ideas and discussions put forward here go far beyond these halls and reach the masses all over the world, and thanked all participants, from students to academics, from journalists to civil society representatives, especially the participants who came to the summit from different continents.

Stating that they made comprehensive evaluations on a wide range of issues during the summit, Duran noted that they discussed many topics, from technology to diplomacy, from current developments to crisis management, from the fight against disinformation to structural problems in the international system.

Duran emphasized that their bilateral contacts also opened the way for valuable cooperation opportunities.

“STRATCOM 2026 HAS BECOME THE PIONEERING PLATFORM WHERE COMMON INTELLIGENCE AND COLLECTIVE RESPONSIBILITY FEATURE”

Duran stated that the STRATCOM Summit stands out as a thought platform enriched with the participation of dozens of distinguished experts from Türkiye and different countries of the world.

Stating that he was honored to present the Declaration of Goodwill of the International Strategic Communication Summit STRATCOM 2026, which was held with the theme “Rupture in the International System: Crises, Narratives and the Search for Order”, Duran said:

“Confirming that information is not only a means of communication but also a fundamental element of both national and global security, defining communication as both a means of transmission and a strategic line of defense that distinguishes truth from disinformation and strengthening national security in digital and information fields, emphasizing that new generation technologies and digital communication tools are at the center of this transformation, opposing the use of new communication technologies to make disinformation ‘more convincing’ and ‘more difficult to detect’ and advocating the principle of algorithmic transparency and ethical purpose.” By defending, emphasizing that access to accurate information is a fundamental right and a prerequisite for global stability in an ecosystem where public opinion is open to manipulation, reiterating our perseverance and determination to establish permanent institutional resilience against manipulation, determining that the international order is going through not only a crisis but also a deep disintegration process, and confirming that the current status quo is unsustainable and the necessity of a fair and equitable reform instead of destruction, preventing the escalation of tension, especially in the face of regional tensions including Iran, observing international law and By adopting an approach that prioritizes dialogue, by advancing a fair, people-oriented and strategically based approach through negotiation, by protecting our region and revealing regional realities with clarity and consistency, by reiterating our commitment to regional security, stability and prosperity, by emphasizing our common goal of establishing a truth-based communication order between states, international organizations, media, academia, technology companies and civil society, by strictly rejecting the eroding of the international system with an understanding that power determines rightness and all kinds of double standards, especially in times of crisis, Based on direct contacts between leaders and the priority of diplomacy, emphasizing the continuity of public diplomacy’s capacity to generate trust and legitimacy under all circumstances, reminding that lasting peace will only be possible with policies that take into account the rights and interests of all parties and that this approach is of vital importance, especially in the face of war crimes such as dehumanization, confirming our determination to build a security architecture based on our own dynamics in order to prevent regional problems, addressing the climate issue not only as a technical environmental issue but also as a human rights and security issue and shaping the solutions in line with the common benefit of humanity, by shaping the solutions in line with the common benefit of humanity. Throughout the day, STRATCOM 2026 has been a leading platform where common sense and collective responsibility come to the fore in addressing global issues.”

“WE’RE ABOUT TO MEET AGAIN NEXT YEAR WITH A FULL PROGRAM”

Thanking the participants for their in-depth analysis and visionary perspectives, Duran said, “I believe that this summit will be a meaningful turning point on the path to a more just international order and a more transparent and accountable communication ecosystem. Let’s act in unity in line with our determination to base truth in communication, establish trust as a common ground, and protect human dignity under all circumstances.” he said.

Expressing his gratitude to President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who sent a video message to the summit, Duran said, “I would like to express my special thanks to our President, who drew us a vision with the words ‘The world is bigger than five’ and ‘A more just world is possible’ and who enabled Türkiye to convey the voice of the oppressed world with his leadership and pioneered the establishment of a new world.” he said.

Duran thanked all his colleagues and Directorate of Communications employees who contributed to the preparation of the widely attended international event, working day and night to bring the program to life, and said, “I entrust you to God to meet again next year with a full program.” he said.

The summit ended after taking a family photo.

The International Strategic Communication Summit, hosted by the Presidential Directorate of Communications, bringing together policy makers, diplomats, communication experts and media professionals from all over the world, has started. Speaking at the summit, Minister of Foreign Affairs Hakan Fidan made important statements, especially regarding the war in the Middle East.

“THE WHOLE WORLD IS PAYING THE PRICE”

Evaluating the latest developments in the Middle East in his speech at the summit, Minister of Foreign Affairs Hakan Fidan said, “We are against any situation that will drag the countries of the region into a serious conflict.” Pointing out that the tension between Israel and Iran affects the whole world, Fidan pointed out global risks by saying, “This is not Israel’s war, in fact, alone; the whole world is paying the price for it.” Reminding that the solution is on the table, not in military methods, Minister Fidan said, “We have only one way out at this point; that is to reduce tension and diplomacy.”

NETANYAHU’S POLITICAL SURVIVAL AND THE DRAMA IN GAZA

Hakan Fidan, who harshly criticized Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s policies, said, “This is a war waged for Netanyahu’s political survival, and yet it is a situation that affects the whole world.” Stating that what happened in Gaza was a genocide, Fidan said, “This process started before our eyes with Israel’s genocide in Gaza; political and diplomatic tools have been used for Israel’s expansionist approach for decades.”

INFORMATION WAR

Stating that wars today continue not only on the field but also on media and digital platforms, the Minister of Foreign Affairs said, “The battlefield is not only a physical area, but also an information-oriented area.” Warning especially against the use of disinformation as a weapon, Fidan said, “Narratives try to manipulate perceptions, change reality and mislead the truth.” Stating that Türkiye defends a resilient social structure on this issue, Fidan said, “Rapid data production leads to the spread of prejudiced and harmful content; a resilient society is possible with healthy data dissemination.”

“OUR REGION WILL NEVER BE THE SAME ANYMORE”

Enriching his speech with an example from Nizamulmulk, Minister Fidan stated that thoughts are more effective than physical weapons and said, “You can shoot an arrow, but its physical effect will be limited; however, the reach of a word or a thought is unlimited.” Reiterating Türkiye’s determination to maintain regional peace, Fidan shared Türkiye’s common vision by saying, “Our region will never be the same again; our intention is to leave tensions behind and carry out cooperation throughout the region for the benefit of everyone.”

AK Party Deputy Chairman Hüseyin Yayman visited the ArtAnkara 12th International Contemporary Art Fair held at ATO Congresium and received information about the works from the artists. Making a statement to journalists after examining the works, Yayman stated that the fair is one of the most important events not only in Ankara, but also in Türkiye and the geography, and congratulated Bilgin Aygül, Chairman of the Board of Directors of ATIS Fuarcılık, who undertook the organization.

Yayman stated that the works of artists from approximately 45 countries were exhibited in the fair area and said:

“Art and culture are among the most important instruments that keep us together. In our country, we all talk a lot about politics, war and foreign policy. In a sense, it is very valuable and valuable to engage in art and cultural activities that will give us a breath of fresh air in our daily lives. Anyone can be an engineer, a farmer, a carpenter, but not everyone can be an artist. Being an artist is very valuable and precious. One of the most important topics that keep us together as a nation is art, culture and sports, and therefore we are very grateful to be at this beautiful art event in Ankara today.” I would like to say that I am very happy.”

“NOW IS THE TIME TO MAKE BIG LEAPS”

Emphasizing that they stand by all artists, Yayman said, “The problem of our artists is our problem and I would like to express that we are always happy to be with them. Turkey, with a population of 86 million, has achieved many successes under the leadership of our President. Now is the time for culture, it is time to make great breakthroughs in art, music and creative arts.” he said.

MHP Chairman Devlet Bahçeli answered journalists’ questions after the opening ceremony of the 23rd Term Education and Training Year of his party’s Politics and Leadership School at the MHP Headquarters. Stating that the 23rd term of the School of Politics and Leadership, which MHP introduced to Turkish political life, has been completed, Bahçeli pointed out that nearly 800 people who have participated in the training have graduated so far.

Prof in the party. Dr. Mehmet Eröz and Prof. Dr. Bahçeli stated that 40 people in Erol Güngör’s classes have started classes as of today, and that general evaluations will be made on the developments in the world and in Türkiye with the lessons attended by experts in their fields, and that those who participate in the training will deserve the 23rd term certificate with the evaluation to be made at the end of 11 weeks.

Bahçeli stated that the School of Politics and Leadership will continue to serve as an example, pioneer and leading institution in Turkish politics.

In response to a journalist’s question about the attacks of the USA and Israel against Iran, Bahçeli emphasized that the Republic of Turkey follows the developments in the region very closely.

Stating that efforts are being made to establish an environment of peace and tranquility that will not allow conflicts in the world, including neighboring countries, Devlet Bahçeli said:

“Today’s political power, especially our esteemed President, and especially the Minister of Foreign Affairs, are making important contacts in terms of ensuring peace, silencing the weapons and achieving peace. In the light of the evaluations they have made so far, thank God, although there are significant violent incidents and major conflicts around, they have preserved Türkiye in unity and solidarity with an understanding that keeps it out of the war. As the Nationalist Movement Party, within the scope of the People’s Alliance, we would like to thank today’s valuable administration, our esteemed President and I wish success to our Minister of Foreign Affairs.”

“REGIME CHANGE MUST START WITH ISRAEL”

Stating that his wish is for the guns to fall silent as soon as possible, Bahçeli continued his words as follows:

“While silencing these weapons, I invite people who have described themselves as a superpower, but who are eager to make regime changes that contradict the national will of each country, against their will, to respect humanity, democracy and the existence of countries. First of all, if there is to be a regime change, as I have stated many times in the past, this regime change must start from Israel, and Israel’s dark ambitions must end. We want them to strive to bring peace to the region and the world again. The most important responsibility for this is the United States, under today’s conditions.” “It is up to the States.”

Pointing out that the US administration makes different statements every day and that the Turkish media presents these statements as if a new development will occur every day, Bahçeli emphasized that this leads to a mistake that will shake society’s confidence in peace.

Bahçeli said, “Administrators, especially our dear media friends, should undertake the task of enlightening the society in the best way by discussing the facts. Otherwise, I hope that no mistake will be made by re-expressing what the head of a state does every day.” he said.

“NOT BASED ON REsentment”

Answering the question about MHP Deputy Chairman İzzet Ulvi Yönter’s resignation from office, Devlet Bahçeli stated that Yönter asked for permission to focus on his academic career studies and said, “He asked for permission to focus on his academic career studies and to further the doctorate title he has earned today.” he said.

Stating that Yönter will continue to serve Türkiye with his academic studies and wishing him success in his studies, Bahçeli said, “The resignation from us is not based on any resentment, it is not a structure similar to the events seen in different parties. It is the result of a division of labor that one of our friends made within the framework of his own understanding while continuing both his political and academic career. Therefore, I wish him success in his academic career.” he said.

Announcing that a new deputy chairman will take office in a short time, Bahçeli said, “The service process will continue. In the Nationalist Movement Party, concepts such as resentment, resentment, anger and revenge are very foreign to us. It is necessary to think for the best in everything.” he said.

Noting that they are making intense efforts to keep Türkiye out of this war, Kalın said, “These efforts continue without a break. As of today, we are intensifying our efforts to ensure that this war does not spread to the entire region, does not become more destructive, and does not cause permanent damage in the future.” The International Strategic Communication Summit (STRATCOM), held by the Presidential Directorate of Communications in a hotel in Beşiktaş with the theme “Rupture in the International System: Crises, Narratives and the Search for Order”, continues with its second day programs. MİT President İbrahim Kalın made a speech within the framework of the event.

MIT President İbrahim Kalın said, “I would like to express my gratitude and congratulations to our Director of Communications, Mr. Burhanettin, and his team for organizing this communication summit. They brought us together in such a critical period and gave us the opportunity to talk about important issues. In this age where communication becomes increasingly important, thinking about information, narrative and power will provide important clues about what and how we tell. Since the pandemic, our world has been going through many critical thresholds, crises and ruptures. The Russia-Ukraine war, which started in 2022, has entered its 5th year. Unfortunately, we do not yet have a clear picture of how the war will end. The effects of the war that started with Hamas in Israel on October 7, 2023, continue today. While our efforts to implement this period, especially the Gaza peace, Israel’s violations, occupation and annexation policies continue without any interruption. We continue to feel the effects of the Syrian revolution that took place in Syria on December 8, 2024, in our entire region. “We are currently in the middle of the Israel-USA-Iran war, which started on February 28 and has been going on for a month. Under the leadership of our President, our Minister of Foreign Affairs, our Minister of National Defense, our Directorate of Communications and all our other relevant friends, we have made a very intense effort, stating that a world system based on unpredictability, fragility and arbitrary use of power will only produce new crises and wars,” he said.

“WE MADE AN INTENSE EFFORT TO KEEP Türkiye OUT OF THIS WAR”

Stating that they are working to end the war in the middle of this war within about a month, Kalın said, “We have made intense efforts to keep Türkiye out of this war. These efforts continue without a break. As of today, we are intensifying our efforts to ensure that this war does not spread to the entire region, does not become more destructive, and does not cause permanent damage in the future. But unfortunately, this regional war initiated by Israel is gradually turning into a global crisis and, in the words of our President, turning into a war for which 8 billion people pay the price. All our efforts will be to end this war as soon as possible. I must also state that a great fire of discord has been lit in our region with this great war. One of the calculated consequences of the war is not only the elimination of Iran’s nuclear capacity, but also the taking of steps that will pave the way for a brotherly war, a blood feud that will continue for decades between the Turks, Kurds, Arabs and Persians, who are the founding and essential elements of the region. We, as Turkey, will always be on the alert. “We will not be the party carrying wood to the fire of discord. If necessary, we will cool the fireball on our chest. We will stand against those who try to spread the fire with our own dynamics, values and leadership,” he said.

“WE WILL CONTINUE TO DO OUR BEST EFFORT TO PREVENT SUCH PAIN FROM AGAIN”

Stating that the war against Iran has no basis in international law, Kalın said, “We know very well that those who started this war are not limited to Iran alone, but are pursuing a new occupation policy by creating de facto situations in Lebanon, Syria, Palestine and other lands. The war has spread beyond Iran to all Gulf countries. As wrong as the war against Iran is, the war against the Gulf countries does not serve any purpose. On this occasion, I wish God’s mercy to all our brothers who lost their lives in Iran and all regions. To prevent such suffering from happening again.” “We will continue to do our best,” he said.