**Erdogan Offers Condolences Over Kyrenia Ferry Sinking**
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed his condolences on Sunday following the tragic sinking of a ferry shortly after its departure from the new port of Kyrenia, Cyprus. The ferry was en route to Tasucu in Turkey when it capsized around 12:10 PM local time, carrying a total of 267 individuals, including 259 passengers and eight crew members.
In a statement, Erdogan extended his sympathies to the Turkish Cypriot community, acknowledging the sorrow caused by the incident. “I extend my condolences to the Turkish Cypriot people following the capsizing of a passenger boat en route from Kyrenia to Tasucu,” he said. He emphasized the swift response of the Turkish authorities, noting that extensive search and rescue operations were launched immediately in collaboration with officials from the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.
As a result of these operations, Erdogan reported that 237 individuals had been successfully rescued. However, he also confirmed the unfortunate loss of seven lives due to the accident. “We hope to receive positive news from these efforts,” he added, referring to ongoing attempts to locate the remaining 23 individuals who are still unaccounted for.
Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman provided an update later in the day, confirming the death toll and the number of survivors. He noted that rescue efforts were still in progress, highlighting the urgency and importance of finding those missing.
Erdogan assured that all available resources of the state had been mobilized to assist in the rescue operations. He conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and wished a swift recovery to those who were rescued.
The incident has drawn attention to maritime safety in the region, prompting discussions about the protocols in place for passenger ferries operating between Cyprus and Turkey. As investigations into the cause of the sinking begin, the focus remains on the ongoing rescue efforts and support for the affected families.
The Kyrenia ferry tragedy marks a somber moment for both the Turkish Cypriot community and the broader region, as officials and citizens alike grapple with the aftermath of this maritime disaster.