The quiet has returned to the village of Akrotiri, next to the British military base of the same name on Cyprus. But that peace isn’t felt by everyone; some residents have temporarily sought shelter elsewhere.
Two weeks ago, an Iranian drone struck the base. Later investigations revealed it was launched from Lebanon, likely by the militant group Hezbollah. A shed was hit, and no one was injured, but the shock remains.
“It’s quiet now, but everyone is afraid,” says Katerina Michael from behind the counter in her butcher shop. “Business isn’t so good now. The village is empty, people have left.”
Strategic Importance and Historical Context
Akrotiri, in southwestern Cyprus, is one of two bases the United Kingdom maintains on the island. It’s not just an airfield and fenced-in barracks, but likewise the surrounding land – which is considered British Overseas Territory.
The British secured these territories when they granted Cyprus independence in 1960. This accounts for approximately 3% of Cyprus’s landmass. Of the roughly 20,000 residents, about half are Cypriot, and the other half are British military personnel and their families.
Legitimate Targets?
In the days following the strike, British fighter jets intercepted two more drones heading towards Cyprus, but it has been quiet since. “We sense safer now,” Michael continues, returning to cutting steak. However, the situation remains uncertain.
Cyprus has no knowledge of what happens on the two bases, even the government is kept in the dark. The British generally use them for military operations and intelligence gathering. Cyprus’s location is highly strategic, situated near Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, and Israel.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer assured Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides that the UK is not participating in war with Iran and that the Americans should not use the bases on Cyprus for attacks. However, Tehran views the bases as legitimate targets.
“Cyprus is not a party to the war and does not want to be,” President Christodoulides repeatedly emphasizes. But that doesn’t prevent the war from coming very close.
Turkish Cypriots and a Divided Island
The situation is particularly tense in the villages around the bases. “We don’t really know what to do now,” says Tasos Stavrinidis over a game of chess in a café. “It would be best if we had a say here ourselves, if the bases would close.”
Many Cypriots feel this way, and have for a long time: they see the British military presence as a relic of colonial times. This is now compounded by a feeling of insecurity.
Since 1974, Turkey has occupied a third of the island. The government in Nicosia has no say there. Negotiations for reunification repeatedly fail and have been stalled for several years. The chances of a quick breakthrough, and therefore a change in the status of the British bases, are slim.
Allied Support
In the café, Stavrinidis is pleased that other EU countries are now coming to Cyprus’s aid. France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, and Italy have sent frigates to defend Cyprus against a potential follow-up attack with drones or missiles.
But Stavrinidis has the most confidence in the old ally, Greece. “We feel Greek here,” he says with a smile. Athens also sent two navy ships to Cyprus and has stationed four additional F-16s on the island.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of RAF Akrotiri?
RAF Akrotiri is currently operational, with increased defensive capabilities, but remains a potential target in the escalating conflict.
Who is believed to be responsible for the drone attack?
While the drone was Iranian-made, investigations suggest it was launched from Lebanon by Hezbollah.
Is Cyprus involved in the conflict with Iran?
Cyprus maintains This proves not a party to the conflict and does not intend to be involved in any military operations.
What is the significance of the British bases in Cyprus?
The bases are strategically important for military operations and intelligence gathering in the region, due to Cyprus’s location.
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