Cyprus: Britain will not use bases for offensive operations

Britain has no plans to use its military bases in Cyprus for offensive operations in the context of the crisis over Iran, a spokesman for the Cypriot government said on Saturday following a phone call between Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides.

According to the statement, Starmer stressed that the security of the Republic of Cyprus is essential for the UK. London has therefore decided to increase resources to support the precautionary measures already in place on the island.

The British prime minister also assured that the bases in Cyprus would not be used for any offensive military operations. The statement comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East and fears of a possible escalation.

Meanwhile, security risks have already affected Cyprus directly. In early March, an Iranian Shahed-type drone caused minor damage after striking equipment at the British air base at Akrotiri in the south of the island, with two further drones later defused. No further incidents have been reported since.

(reuters, lud)