Madrid, Spain. Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said Cyprus is “a victim of this war” as Spain confirmed it will deploy a naval air defence frigate to help protect the island amid rising tensions linked to the US-Israeli conflict with Iran.
Sanchez criticises campaign against Iran
Speaking during a press conference on Friday, Sanchez criticised the military campaign against Iran while defending Spain’s decision to assist Cyprus as a member of the European Union facing security risks from the regional escalation.
“This war in Iran is, in my opinion, in Spain’s opinion, a huge mistake,” Sanchez said.
“With the same determination that we say ‘no to war in Iran’ we are in solidarity and will help Cyprus, a country of the European Union that is a victim of this war.”
Spain to deploy Cristobal Colon to the Levant
Madrid has ordered the deployment of the Spanish navy frigate Cristobal Colon to the Levant as part of a broader European effort to reinforce the island’s defensive perimeter following recent security incidents and heightened regional tensions.
Sanchez framed the move as an act of solidarity between EU partners while maintaining criticism of the broader conflict.
“Between allied countries it is good to help when there is a reason and to point out when a mistake is made,” he said.
“This war in Iran is a huge mistake that we will pay for.”
European naval assets operating near Cyprus
Spain’s deployment comes as several European naval forces position assets near Cyprus to strengthen air and missile defence capabilities around the island.
According to open-source monitoring, the French frigate Languedoc and Greek frigates Psara and Kimon are already operating in the area.
What do you think Spain’s deployment could mean for security around Cyprus?
