Nicosia, Cyprus. Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas said on Thursday there is “no immediate threat” to the Republic of Cyprus despite heightened tensions across the Middle East. He said the national guard remains at a high level of operational readiness.
Security assessment and readiness
Speaking on CyBC’s morning programme, Palmas said the security situation is being closely monitored and that Cyprus has the capacity to “defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity if necessary”.
He said that any threats recorded so far have been directed at the British base areas rather than the Republic itself. “There is no direct threat against the republic,” he said, adding that the government’s position is that the bases do “belong to the territory of the Republic of Cyprus”.
Greek and French support and wider discussions
Palmas thanked Greece and France for what he described as their immediate response in sending military equipment to the island, calling it “an act of solidarity between friendly and allied countries”.
He said support from other European states is also under discussion.
Base upgrades and public message
Palmas said work to upgrade the Andreas Papandreou air base in Paphos and the Evangelos Florakis naval base at Mari is continuing as planned, describing them as important infrastructure for Cyprus’ role in the Levant.
He urged the public to remain calm and be cautious of misinformation circulating during the regional crisis.
President’s address
Palmas’ comments followed President Nikos Christodoulides’ televised address on Wednesday night, in which the president 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,” the president said.
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