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Nicosia remains on high alert as it prepares for potential crises stemming from escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, including the possibility of a large-scale conflict involving Hezbollah in Lebanon.
According to Yiannis Ioannou's article published in Kathimerini Cyprus in Greek, recent ballistic missile strikes launched by Iran against Israeli targets underscore the growing instability in the region, while Cyprus's geographic proximity as the EU's closest member state to the Middle East heightens its significance in crisis management.
Well-informed sources indicate that Nicosia is closely monitoring developments while maintaining a state of calm and readiness. Coordination among government ministries and agencies is key to effectively managing any emerging crises. Following Iran's missile attacks on Israel, the National Security Council convened to strategize on several preparedness measures:
1. Activation of Plan "Estia": This special national plan will facilitate the evacuation of Greek Cypriot citizens from Lebanon through Cyprus if necessary. Cyprus has historically played a vital role in evacuations during crises, as seen in past conflicts in Lebanon and the recent situation in Sudan.
2. Crisis Management Coordination: The Ministerial Crisis Management Team is working across multiple ministries to prepare for potential refugee influxes from Lebanon, particularly in light of a significant conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. Such a scenario could lead to increased irregular migration via the Lebanese coast.
3. Addressing Security Concerns: Authorities are also considering individual security challenges that may arise for Cyprus due to its proximity to the Middle East.
The missile attack on Israel, visible from parts of Cyprus, raised public concern over potential dangers to the island. Recent social media posts circulating footage of the incident echoed fears stemming from a past incident in 2019, when a Syrian missile landed in Cyprus. However, analysts emphasize that technical assessments of the missile's flight characteristics suggest minimal risk. The trajectory and altitude of Iranian missiles, combined with Israeli air defenses, significantly reduce the likelihood of debris affecting Cyprus.
The use of British military bases in Cyprus has sparked debate about the island's involvement in Middle Eastern conflicts. Public concerns have resurfaced about the potential targeting of these bases. Moreover, the spread of disinformation, such as false reports regarding the kidnapping of the Israeli ambassador in Nicosia, has fueled anxieties. This trend includes narratives suggesting that U.S. arms transfers to Israel are routed through Cyprus, complicating the island's geopolitical positioning.
On Monday, just hours before Iran's missile strikes, a U.S. C-17 transport plane was confirmed to have landed in Tel Aviv, transferring Iron Dome ammunition directly from a U.S. base in Florida, highlighting the ongoing military operations in the region. Cyprus's role in this disinformation landscape was addressed by Foreign Minister Konstantinos Kompos, who underscored the reality of misinformation amid regional conflicts.
In response to the escalating situation, London and Nicosia are coordinating closely, exemplified by British Defence Minister John Healy's recent visit to Cyprus for discussions with Cypriot officials and EU representatives.
