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The recently declassified intelligence documents on the events surrounding the 1974 Turkish invasion of Cyprus and the coup against Archbishop Makarios shed light on the complex dynamics of the period but do not significantly alter existing historical conclusions. Rather, the documents confirm much of what contemporary scholars, such as Alexis Papachelas, have already detailed, while offering additional context and insight into the perceptions and priorities of key players during that tumultuous time.
Key Takeaways from the Declassification:
1. Makarios and the National Guard:
The documents highlight the National Intelligence Service's (NIS) intense focus on Archbishop Makarios' leadership and his controversial decision to consolidate the National Guard by removing Greek officers and replacing them with retired, Royalist officers. This move was seen as a threat by both local Greek Cypriot factions and the Turkish side, which viewed the Greek officers’ presence as a safeguard for the Turkish Cypriot minority.
2. Unawareness of the Coup:
Contrary to conspiracy theories, the intelligence bulletins reveal that the authors, likely from the Central Intelligence Service (CIS), were unaware of the coup against Makarios. Reports issued just hours before the coup anticipated his continued presidency and focused on intercommunal negotiations rather than military actions.
3. Forewarning of the Turkish Invasion:
While the NIS noted Turkish military preparations, their reports did not foresee the scale and timing of the invasion. On July 19, a day before the attack, intelligence merely mentioned Turkish forces being on alert. After the invasion, intelligence activities were disrupted until July 23, reflecting the chaos of the period.
4. International Responses and Criticism:
The documents criticize the United States, the Soviet Union, and Britain for their perceived bias toward Turkey during the crisis. Britain, in particular, is accused of encouraging Turkey's intervention, though this claim is not supported by broader historical evidence. The U.S. stance is described as “clearly pro-Turkish,” with allegations that American warnings of Turkish expansion were strategically aimed at pressuring Greece during negotiations.
5. Insights on the Geneva Talks:
As negotiations at the Geneva Conference failed to produce solutions, the intelligence reports highlighted growing frustration with Western powers. The collapse of the talks and the subsequent "Attila II" Turkish offensive were framed as results of international neglect and bias, further fueling anti-Western sentiment.
6. Potential for Future Studies:
The declassified material, comprising 58 intelligence bulletins, enriches the archival record and provides a more nuanced view of the period. While it does not rewrite the historical narrative, it offers valuable resources for more in-depth and unbiased analysis, moving beyond conspiracy theories and simplistic interpretations.
What’s New?
While the declassification provides deeper insight into the Greek Cypriot perspective and intelligence operations of the time, it does not drastically change what is already known about the coup and invasion. The revelations largely affirm existing conclusions but enhance our understanding of the geopolitical climate, internal divisions, and external pressures that shaped the events of 1974.
This material will undoubtedly serve as a foundation for further scholarly research, providing a clearer lens through which to view one of the most significant episodes in modern Cypriot history.
