Prof. Dr. Doğan Aydal Responds to 'Our Clouds Are Being Stolen' Claims

Conspiracy theories suggesting that the United States and Israel are 'stealing' Turkey's clouds, thereby increasing rainfall, have been addressed by Prof. Dr. Doğan Aydal, Deputy Chairman of the Re-Foundation Party. In a written statement, Aydal firmly rejected these claims, asserting that they are not scientifically proven and serve only to create needless public concern. He questioned the logic behind such theories, asking if cloud theft would resume once the alleged wars involving the US and Israel conclude.

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According to the rumor, because the US and Israel are at war, they are unable to steal our clouds, and that's why our rains have increased. This is not a proven subject.

Prof. Aydal clarified the existing scientific understanding of weather modification. He explained that current technology, in use since the 1970s, focuses on accelerating precipitation from existing clouds, primarily through methods like seeding with silver iodide. This technique has been employed globally, including by the US during the Vietnam War to disrupt enemy supply lines and by China to ensure clear skies for the Beijing Olympics. He also noted instances where ski resorts have paid for cloud seeding to induce snowfall.

However, Aydal emphasized that the notion of 'stealing' clouds or transporting them across vast geographical areas to cause rain in another country remains unproven. He cautioned against attributing powers to other nations that they do not possess, stating that such discourse is unhelpful for Turkey. From a Turkish perspective, these kinds of unfounded theories can be particularly distracting, diverting attention from genuine scientific and technological advancements. While international coverage might dismiss such claims outright, it's important to address them within the local context, as they can tap into existing nationalistic sentiments or anxieties about foreign influence.

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Will the US and Israel start stealing our clouds again when the war ends tomorrow? Spreading this idea will undoubtedly cause various concerns among the public.

Aydal's intervention is crucial in promoting a rational, science-based approach. He urged the public and media to rely on factual information rather than succumbing to baseless speculation. Attributing supernatural or exaggerated capabilities to other nations, especially in a context of geopolitical sensitivity, is counterproductive and fosters an environment of fear rather than informed understanding. This stance reflects a commitment to evidence-based discourse, which is vital for national progress and stability.

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The technology is based on facilitating the precipitation process in existing clouds, not 'stealing' clouds or transporting them over vast geographies. This is not a proven subject yet.