The statements by Minister of Interior Süleyman Soylu regarding the temporary closure of the Istanbul Consulates General of the UK, Netherlands, and Germany for security reasons, stating "psychological warfare is being waged against Turkey," resonated with the public. So, what is psychological warfare? What are the techniques of psychological warfare? Tarhan extensively discusses the topic in his book titled "Psychological Warfare", published by Timaş Yayınları and now in its 26th edition.
In the assessment by Cumhuriyet.com.tr, reference is made to the book "Psychological Warfare" by Psychiatrist and author Prof. Dr. Nevzat Tarhan, regarding psychological warfare and its techniques. The news article stated the following:
“Psychological warfare, defined as the use of information to change people's emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in war and peace, came to the agenda with the statements of Minister of Interior Süleyman Soylu.
WHAT IS PSYCHOLOGICAL WARFARE?
Psychological warfare is the technique of using communication tools and other psychological means to create psychological pressure on the enemy and to positively influence the attitudes and behaviors of enemy groups and other targeted communities in areas under enemy control, in a declared state of emergency or war. Its primary function is to support all efforts aimed at weakening the enemy's will to continue war or conflict and reducing its capacity to sustain the war.
WHAT ARE THE TECHNIQUES OF PSYCHOLOGICAL WARFARE?
The Chinese commander Sun Tzu, author of the first known book on war techniques in history, dedicates a large part of his book to psychologically breaking down the opponent. Psychological warfare techniques and tactics are among the most important military strategies and tactics. Psychological warfare, conducted with long-term plans and strategies aimed at a specific objective, has been one of the most frequently used methods of struggle during both hot and cold war periods.
Prof. Dr. Nevzat Tarhan defined psychological warfare as follows: Psychological warfare is described as achieving results by influencing people's state of mind in the winning or losing of a conventional war, in maintaining superiority after the war, or in solving problems.
According to Tarhan, there are four techniques of psychological warfare. These are: Strategic, tactical, reinforcing, and provocation-type psychological warfare.”
Cumhuriyet