Newsroom
President Nikos Christodoulides said recent attacks linked to the escalating conflict in the Middle East have so far targeted only the British military bases on the island, as regional tensions continue to ripple across the Eastern Mediterranean.
Speaking during a special broadcast on Greek television network SKAI about the fallout from the war in Iran, Christodoulides said the incidents recorded in Cyprus appear to have originated mainly from Lebanon.
“To put things in their proper perspective, the attacks we’ve seen so far have been directed exclusively at the British bases in Cyprus,” he said.
The president added that he remains in close contact with regional leaders and spoke by phone with the president of Lebanon the previous day as the situation unfolds.
Concerns over UK comments
Christodoulides also acknowledged that there was some irritation in Nicosia following remarks by the UK’s defense minister about the use of the British bases on the island.
He said the initial comments created unnecessary concern because they did not accurately reflect the situation.
According to the president, contacts were made with the British prime minister to clarify that the bases are not being used for offensive operations connected to the war.
The issue is particularly sensitive for Cyprus, he noted, because around 10,000 Cypriot citizens live within the areas of the British bases, making any potential threat a direct concern for the Republic.
Missile threat still possible
Asked about the possibility of a ballistic missile attack from Iran, Christodoulides said such a scenario cannot be ruled out.
“We cannot exclude anything when it comes to ballistic missiles,” he said.
He explained that authorities sometimes activate alerts when intelligence raises concerns, with both Cypriot and British forces remaining on high readiness when such information emerges.
Because many Iranian missiles are aimed at Israel, he noted, they often travel across the broader Eastern Mediterranean region, meaning Cyprus must monitor the situation closely.
Military support from Greece and Europe
Christodoulides said Cyprus has its own upgraded defense systems, while also benefiting from the presence of British forces on the island.
At the same time, he highlighted growing support from European partners.
“I’ve been dealing with European affairs since 2011, and this is the first time I’ve seen this level of response and cooperation from the European Union,” he said.
He referred to Article 42.7 of the EU treaty, often described as the bloc’s equivalent to NATO’s collective defense clause, which can be activated if a member state is attacked.
The president also revealed that Greece has deployed F-16 fighter jets and naval frigates to Cyprus, calling the move one of the most significant developments in the history of the Republic.
The decision followed discussions with the Greek prime minister and coordination between the defense ministries of both countries.
“We asked for support in specific areas, and the response was immediate,” he said.
France has also responded positively, while Cyprus is in talks with several other European countries, including Italy, Spain, Germany and the Netherlands, about strengthening its deterrence capabilities.
NATO membership still complicated
When asked about Cyprus joining NATO, Christodoulides said the country would apply if it were possible tomorrow.
However, he acknowledged that political realities, particularly Turkey’s opposition, currently make such a move impossible.
Preparatory work is nevertheless underway, he said, so Cyprus will be ready if the geopolitical conditions eventually allow it.
‘Some exaggeration’ about the situation
Christodoulides also suggested that some international coverage has overstated what is happening on the island.
“Looking at some reports, especially in the international media, there is a degree of exaggeration about what is happening in Cyprus,” he said.
While acknowledging public concern is understandable, he said the government’s focus remains on protecting the country and its citizens.
“In times of war,” the president added, “the first casualty is the truth.”
