**Title: Arikli Considers Resignation Following Kyrenia Ferry Disaster**
**Kyrenia, Northern Cyprus** – In the wake of a tragic ferry disaster off the coast of Kyrenia, the region's transport minister, Erhan Arikli, has stated that he will resign from his position "if necessary." This announcement comes after a passenger ferry sank on Sunday, resulting in the loss of at least eight lives and leaving several others unaccounted for.
During a press briefing on Monday, Arikli emphasized the importance of waiting for the recovery of the ferry's black box, which could provide crucial insights into the circumstances surrounding the incident. He has pledged to take responsibility based on the findings from the black box once it is retrieved. "I will resign if necessary, but trying to attack someone from the very beginning is unethical. Be patient," he remarked during an interview with the north's public broadcaster BRT.
The ferry, which was carrying 259 passengers and eight crew members, capsized shortly after departing from the new port of Kyrenia at approximately 12:10 PM on Sunday, bound for the Turkish port of Tasucu. The search and rescue operations have been ongoing since the incident, with efforts to locate the black box expected to commence on Tuesday. The Turkish deep-sea search-and-rescue vessel TCG Isin is scheduled to arrive in the area after departing from Canakkale in the Dardanelles.
As of the latest updates, the number of missing individuals has been a point of contention. Official reports initially indicated that 18 people were missing, but sources later revealed that the actual number is 20, with a list of names provided to the Cyprus Mail. Arikli expressed his belief that the number of missing individuals was "unlikely to increase" beyond this figure.
In light of the disaster, Arikli confirmed that all ferry services between Kyrenia and Tasucu have been suspended. However, ferry operations between Famagusta and Tasucu continue to function as normal. The minister's comments reflect a broader concern for the safety of maritime travel in the region, especially following such a devastating event.
As the investigation into the incident unfolds, the recovery of the black box is anticipated to play a critical role in determining the cause of the ferry's sinking and any potential lapses in safety protocols. The findings will likely influence not only Arikli's political future but also the regulatory framework governing ferry operations in the area.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the local community, with many expressing their condolences to the families of the victims. As authorities continue their search and rescue efforts, the focus remains on providing support to those affected by the disaster and ensuring the safety of future maritime travel in the region.
The situation is still developing, and further updates are expected as more information becomes available from the ongoing investigations and recovery operations.