Cyprus’s President, Nikos Christodoulides, clarified that Cyprus is not involved in Middle Eastern war operations, despite increased activity at the UK’s RAF Akrotiri base. The country focuses on humanitarian efforts, such as establishing an aid corridor for Gaza and coordinating evacuation plans for foreign nationals.
Is Cyprus involved in war operations in the Middle East?
Cyprus’s President, Nikos Christodoulides, confirmed that Cyprus is not involved in Middle Eastern war operations. The allegations arose due to increased activity at the UK’s RAF Akrotiri base. However, Cyprus focuses on humanitarian efforts, like establishing an aid corridor for Gaza and coordinating evacuation plans for foreign nationals.
Clarifying the Nation’s Stance
Cyprus’s President, Nikos Christodoulides, firmly addressed concerns on Saturday regarding the island’s involvement in ongoing Middle Eastern conflicts. Contrary to circulating reports, he stated that Cyprus is not to be used for war operations. These allegations came to light as activities increased at the UK’s RAF Akrotiri base, suggesting a military mobilization involving US and UK forces.
Mediterranean Symposium Highlights
The president’s remarks were made following the 6th Mediterranean Symposium hosted by BPW. He highlighted Cyprus’s humanitarian role, particularly its efforts to establish an aid corridor for Gaza and coordinating an evacuation plan for foreign nationals from Israel amidst the crisis.
Investigating the Reports
UK Declassified, citing Israel’s Haaretz newspaper, claimed that weaponry and forces were being deployed from RAF Akrotiri to assist Israel after recent conflicts with Hamas. Details emerged about the US leveraging its bases in Turkey, Spain, and Germany to facilitate transfers to Cyprus. Notable movements included C-17A Globemaster military transports from Rota, Spain, and Ramstein, Germany, renowned for their substantial personnel and equipment capacity.
Official Responses
In light of these assertions, the UK Ministry of Defence reassured that any use of its bases adheres to their objectives of de-escalation and stability support in the region. Despite routine approvals for allied forces to access UK bases, the ministry denies any transport of lethal aid via RAF operations.
Humanitarian Efforts by Cyprus
With a steadfast commitment to peace, Cyprus has been advocating for a humanitarian aid corridor to Gaza. President Christodoulides confirms progressing national procedures and impending regional discussions in Jordan and Egypt to advance this initiative.
Upcoming Regional Engagements
The President’s upcoming travel to Jordan and Egypt is poised to be crucial in furthering the dialogue on the proposed sea corridor for Gaza. These meetings are expected to play a pivotal role in turning the humanitarian plan into actionable steps with the support of the United Nations and the European Union.
Tracking RAF Movements
Amidst these developments, Declassified reported a total of 33 flights by the UK’s Royal Air Force between Akrotiri and Tel Aviv, a pattern that apparently emerged only after the recent hostilities. The British defence ministry countered, citing 17 flights aimed at diplomatic engagement and support for British citizens, with no lethal aid on board.
Looking Ahead
As Cyprus navigates the complexities of regional tensions, President Christodoulides’s diplomatic endeavors underscore the island’s dedication to humanitarian aid and peaceful resolutions. The international community awaits the potential establishment of a new humanitarian aid route, which Cyprus is actively striving to implement through its concerted efforts and international collaborations.
Quick Recap
- Cyprus’s President, Nikos Christodoulides, clarified that Cyprus is not involved in Middle Eastern war operations, despite increased activity at the UK’s RAF Akrotiri base.
- Cyprus focuses on humanitarian efforts, such as establishing an aid corridor for Gaza and coordinating evacuation plans for foreign nationals.
- The allegations of Cyprus’s involvement in war operations arose due to increased activity at the UK’s RAF Akrotiri base, suggesting a military mobilization involving US and UK forces.
- The UK Ministry of Defence reassured that any use of its bases adheres to their objectives of de-escalation and stability support in the region, denying any transport of lethal aid via RAF operations.
- Cyprus is actively striving to implement a new humanitarian aid route through its concerted efforts and international collaborations.
