Nicosia, Cyprus. President Nikos Christodoulides said attacks in Cyprus were aimed exclusively at the British bases and criticised comments made by UK Defence Minister John Healey about the bases’ role in Middle East hostilities.
Remarks on British bases
Speaking on Thursday evening in an interview on Greek Skai TV, Christodoulides said Healey, during his visit to Cyprus earlier in the day, “did not give the full picture and caused concern among the people in Cyprus and internationally.”
Ballistic missiles and regional risk
Asked whether there was danger from ballistic missiles being fired by Iran in the direction of Cyprus, Christodoulides said the target was Israel, while adding that “we cannot rule out anything as regards the ballistic missiles.” He said Israel was mostly the target, but that missiles pass over the broader eastern Mediterranean and that authorities were monitoring the situation closely.
Defence capabilities and cooperation
Christodoulides said Cyprus has its own defence systems that have been significantly upgraded, while the British have their own protection. He added that agreements are in place with EU states to contribute if necessary. He said it was the first time he had seen such a level of response and cooperation from EU institutions and member states.
Greek support and public concerns
Referring to Greece, Christodoulides said sending Greek frigates and F-16 fighter jets was “one of the most important developments in the history of the Republic of Cyprus.” He also said that in many cases where there is concern, “the alarm is terminated.” Christodoulides said there was “some exaggeration over what is happening in Cyprus,” while adding that public concern was justified and that the top priority was the safety of the country and its people. “In wartimes, the first casualty is the truth,” he said.
What do you think about the government’s assessment that there is some exaggeration about the situation in Cyprus?