Departure of Öcalan from Italy and Closure of the Embassy

Historical Significance and Background

The event that took place on December 27, 1999 is an important turning point resulting in the closure of the Italian Embassy in Ankara, which was the moment when PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan was leaving Italy to go to Russia. This event caused a major crisis in Turkey-Italy relations.

The event coincided with a period in the late 1990s when PKK terrorism had an increasing impact on Turkey. The PKK had been carrying out terrorist activities in southeastern Turkey for a long time and was engaged in armed struggle against the Turkish military. Abdullah Ocalan had become the leader of the PKK and a symbol of the struggle against Turkish security forces during this period.

Development of the Event

Ocalan's Departure from Italy

Upon learning that PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan was about to leave Italy, Turkey became greatly concerned on December 27, 1999. The information that Ocalan was heading to Russia was met with significant apprehension by the Turkish government, which took action to prevent him from going to Russia.

Closure of the Embassy

Turkey closed the Italian Embassy in Ankara during the hours when Ocalan's departure from Italy was taking place. This step was an important move by Turkey to prevent Ocalan's escape abroad. By closing the embassy, a route through which Ocalan could have escaped was blocked.

Developments Leading to the Crisis

Following the event, Turkey-Italy relations entered into a major crisis. Turkey reacted strongly, believing that Italy had assisted Ocalan's escape. Diplomatic relations between the two countries were seriously damaged, and tensions escalated further with the closure of embassies.

Consequences and Effects

In terms of short-term effects, a serious crisis occurred in Turkey-Italy relations. Diplomatic relations between the two countries were strained, and tensions continued for a while. Turkey accelerated its international efforts to capture Ocalan, and during this process, its relations with Russia were also affected.

In terms of long-term consequences, this event became a significant turning point in Turkey's fight against PKK terrorism. Ocalan's capture and extradition to Turkey caused a serious shake-up in the leadership structure of the PKK. This event also demonstrated Turkey's determination in combating terrorism on the international stage.

In terms of societal and political changes, this event led to an increased focus on the fight against terrorism in Turkey. Public opinion became more sensitive to the issue of combating terrorism, and the measures taken by the government received support. Additionally, this event highlighted Turkey's need for international cooperation in combating terrorism.

Historical Significance and Reflections to the Present Day

The impact of this event on the modern world is significant. Turkey has started to play a more active role in securing international support and cooperation in the fight against terrorism. Turkey has become an example to other countries with its experience and strategies in combating terrorism.

Its significance in the present day stems from the fact that the issue of combating terrorism still holds an important place on the global agenda. Events such as Ocalan's departure from Italy and the closure of the embassy emphasize once again the importance of international cooperation and coordination in the fight against terrorism. This event has been a turning point that demonstrates the need to strengthen international cooperation in the fight against terrorism.

In terms of lessons learned, this event has revealed Turkey's determination in combating terrorism and the necessity of international cooperation. International support and cooperation are important for an effective fight against terrorism, and this event can be considered as an example of that.