Iranian diplomatic sources have sought to reassure Cyprus that the island is not at risk of Iranian strikes, provided that the British Sovereign Base Areas are not used in operations against the Islamic Republic.
Speaking to Politis, the sources confirmed that diplomatic communication between Nicosia and Tehran remains open and active, stressing that discussions continue on a range of issues, including the British military bases in Cyprus.
The comments come a day after a Financial Times report, citing Iranian officials, said Tehran was considering scenarios that could extend a future conflict beyond the Middle East to European territory used against Iran, including Cyprus.
Diplomatic channel remains active
Asked about the Financial Times report, the Iranian diplomatic sources said statements attributed to Iranian insiders are not always reliable and often reflect speculation or reactions to threats from other parties.
According to the sources:
"Statements from Iranian sources are not always very reliable and are often speculation that stems from the response of Iranian officials to threats made by the other side."
They added that the diplomatic channel between Cyprus and Iran remains highly active.
"In the case of Cyprus, the path and channel of diplomacy are very active, and the parties discuss various issues, including the British Bases in Cyprus. As long as there is no hostile action against Iran originating from those Bases, nothing will happen."
Concerns on both sides
The same sources said Iranian authorities are aware of concerns expressed by the Cypriot side regarding residents and employees living within the boundaries of the British bases.
However, they argued that Iranian concerns should also be understood.
"Iranian authorities are aware of the concerns of the Cypriot side regarding citizens living and working within the boundaries of those Bases, but we should not overlook the fact that the lives of Iranian citizens could also be endangered if those Bases are used against Iran."
The sources said the continued existence of an active diplomatic channel between the two countries suggests a shared understanding of these concerns.
