Apostolos Tomaras
Cyprus has ramped up its national security measures in recent days, as hostilities between Israel and Iran continue to escalate. With both sides exchanging missile strikes, concern is growing across the Eastern Mediterranean region, prompting heightened alert levels on the island.
It’s worth noting that the highest state of military readiness in Cyprus is “Tharros 3.”
Following an emergency meeting of the National Security Council last Friday, Cyprus intensified its readiness out of fear that the conflict could take an unexpected turn. Reliable sources told Kathimerini that the National Guard has raised its alert status by one level—from "Tharros 1" (normal readiness) to "Tharros 2." Military sources explained that this means air defense systems tasked with protecting the Republic of Cyprus are now operating 24/7. Radar systems forming part of the country’s anti-aircraft defense are continuously scanning both Cypriot airspace and the broader region.
It’s worth noting that the highest state of military readiness in Cyprus is “Tharros 3.”
Heightened security at British bases
Alongside Cyprus’s National Guard, British bases on the island have also heightened their state of readiness. Military sources told Kathimerini that the same level of alert applies to UK installations as a precaution against a potential strike from Tehran.
Although London has insisted it played no role in the ongoing conflict, air threat response systems at the British bases are on standby. Cypriot government sources said Nicosia has been in communication with British officials, who gave assurances that the bases would not be used at any stage of the conflict.
Unclear role in regional air defense network
It remains unclear whether the National Guard’s elevated alert status has included the mobilization or repositioning of air defense systems. It's also unknown whether Cyprus is formally part of a wider regional air defense umbrella, which is often activated during periods of crisis.
A similar situation unfolded during the Syrian crisis in 2014, when military units from third countries set up a protective air defense shield in the region to guard against spillover from clashes between Syria and the Western coalition. At the time, the Cypriot National Guard, in coordination with coalition forces, dispersed its air defense systems across key locations, operating under heightened vigilance.
*This article was translated from its Greek original
