Cyprus foreign minister says British bases the target of military action, not his country
Cyprus's foreign minister stated that British military bases are at risk of attack amid the conflict in Iran, stressing the need for UK accountability.
The foreign minister of Cyprus, Constantinos Kombos, made a clear statement to Sky News regarding the situation surrounding the military action in Iran, asserting that British bases, rather than Cyprus itself, are the intended targets of ongoing threats. He expressed discontent with the UK's handling of these security issues while highlighting the unique position of Cyprus as a nation striving for peace and security amidst regional tensions.
Kombos welcomed the reinforcement of UK military forces in the region but pointed out that the deployment of military assets is largely influenced by EU member states such as Greece, France, and Spain, who are contributing to what he termed as a 'collective shield' for Cyprus. His comments underline a collaborative European response to possible threats stemming from the ongoing conflict in Iran, as well as the need for the UK to fulfill its responsibilities regarding the British military bases on Cypriot soil.
Additionally, Kombos emphasized the expectation that the UK will integrate its military forces into the broader European security framework being established in response to the Iran war. This speaks to a larger narrative of regional cooperation and the importance of shared security efforts in mitigating the risks posed by external conflicts within the area, ultimately positioning Cyprus as a pivotal player in regional diplomatic discussions.