Cyprus is not facing an immediate threat despite heightened tensions in the Middle East, according to Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas, who said the authorities are closely monitoring developments while maintaining full operational readiness.
Speaking on CyBC’s morning programme on Thursday, Palmas said the National Guard remains at a high level of preparedness and that the Republic of Cyprus has the capacity to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity if necessary.
Assessment of the current security situation
The defence minister said that the security situation is being closely monitored but clarified that any threats recorded so far have been directed at the British base areas rather than the Republic of Cyprus.
“There is no direct threat against the republic,” Palmas said, adding that the government’s position is that the bases “belong to the territory of the Republic of Cyprus”.
Military support from European partners
Palmas thanked Greece and France for what he described as their immediate response in sending military equipment to the island, characterising the move as “an act of solidarity between friendly and allied countries”.
He added that discussions are also under way regarding possible support from other European states.
Infrastructure upgrades at strategic bases
The defence minister said that work to upgrade the Andreas Papandreou Air Base in Paphos and the Evangelos Florakis Naval Base at Mari is continuing as planned. He described both facilities as important infrastructure for Cyprus’ role in the eastern Mediterranean.
Palmas also called on the public to remain calm and exercise caution regarding misinformation circulating during the regional crisis.
Government measures and emergency alert system
The statements follow a televised address by President Nikos Christodoulides on Wednesday evening, during which he said the government is acting “responsibly and transparently” with the sole aim of safeguarding the public.
“In these critical moments the government has acted responsibly, transparently and with the sole purpose of ensuring the security of the country and its citizens,” he said.
Christodoulides stated that all government services have been on alert and in full operational readiness since the start of the crisis.
He also announced the trial activation of Cyprus’ emergency paging system, which will allow civil defence authorities to send direct alerts to residents’ mobile phones if required.
Repatriation efforts and Cyprus’ position on the conflict
The government is also working to repatriate Cypriots stranded abroad. The president confirmed that the first flights carrying returnees have already arrived.
Christodoulides emphasised that Cyprus is not participating in military operations in the region.
“We are not part of a war, and we remain focused on the humanitarian role we have served all this time, always as part of the solution and never as part of the problem.”
He added that Cyprus remains in constant contact with partners in the European Union and other countries. Assistance from Greece and France has already been secured, while consultations with other states are ongoing.
Greek military deployment to Cyprus
Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias said the deployment of Greek forces is intended to strengthen the island’s security.
Speaking to Alpha TV on Thursday, he said Cyprus “can now feel safe from Iranian fire” following the dispatch of two Greek frigates, Kimon and Psara, as well as four F-16 fighter jets.
Referring to the frigate Kimon, described by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis as the “pride of the Greek fleet”, Dendias said the vessel is fully equipped for potential crises but has not taken part in any operations.
“The presence of Greek planes and ships is to protect the entire population of Cyprus. We offer a comprehensive service,” Dendias said.