Cypriot leader seeks dialogue on British bases after drone strike highlights security concerns.
Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides has called for an open and frank discussion with the UK regarding its two military bases on the island, describing them as a "colonial consequence" from the 1960 treaty that granted Britain sovereignty over the areas.
The bases, located at Akrotiri and Dhekelia, cover 98 square miles and employ over 10,000 Cypriot citizens, according to Christodoulides. He emphasized the need for talks once the situation in the Middle East stabilizes, as stated during his arrival at an EU leaders' summit in Brussels.
Recent Drone Attack on RAF Akrotiri
This month, RAF Akrotiri was targeted by drones believed to be fired from Lebanon by the Iranian-backed group Hezbollah, shortly after the start of the US-Israeli conflict with Iran. Two drones were intercepted, but a third caused minimal damage to the base.
In response, the UK deployed a naval frigate, HMS Dragon, to bolster defenses in Cyprus. The UK has also granted the US permission to use the bases for specific defensive operations, though they were not involved in prior US actions against Iran.
Protesters have criticized the UK for potentially making Cyprus a target due to the bases, with international allies including France, Greece, Spain, and Germany providing support. Two Greek frigates and a French naval ship arrived near Cyprus shortly after the attack.
UK's Stance and Ongoing Cooperation
UK Defence Secretary John Healey, during a visit to RAF Akrotiri earlier this month, stated that military cooperation with Cyprus has never been closer, as confirmed by Cyprus's head of the National Guard. The UK has increased its military presence in the region in response to the incident.
Christodoulides clarified that Cyprus has a clear approach to the future of the bases but declined to negotiate publicly. The bases remain a significant source of employment and strategic importance, amid broader regional tensions involving NATO allies.
