During a televised speech on Wednesday, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah issued a warning to Cyprus.
Speaking from a secret location in Lebanon, Nasrallah declared that Cyprus would "become part of the war" if it allowed Israeli military use of its airports and bases.
The Cypriot government quickly dismissed these allegations, denying any involvement in the conflict.
This development was reported by Die Presse.
Cyprus Denies Involvement
Cyprus, an EU member since 2004, rejected Nasrallah's threats.
Government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis addressed the issue on Cypriot radio (RIK), stating that the allegations "do not correspond to reality" and described them as "uncomfortable." He assured that all necessary diplomatic steps would be taken.
Cyprus' president, Nikos Christodoulides, also denied any involvement in the current war.
"Cyprus is not part of the problem, but of the solution," the president claimed, referring to the humanitarian aid corridor for ships supplying the Gaza Strip, in which Cyprus plays an important role.
Military Maneuvers and Cooperation
While Nasrallah's warnings may seem unfounded, there is a history of military cooperation between Israel and Cyprus.
Reports indicate that Israeli special units have traveled to Cyprus for counter-terrorism training with Cypriot forces.
Cyprus has also allowed Israeli Air Force exercises in its airspace, though not for combat missions. Joint maneuvers have been commonplace since 2014, with Israeli fighter jets participating in drills against Cypriot air defenses.
Adding complexity to the situation, the British military bases Akrotiri and Dhekelia on Cyprus have been used for operations in Syria, Iraq, and Yemen.
These bases, sovereign territories under British control, have played roles in recent air strikes, including missions against the Houthi militia in Yemen.
However, these actions are beyond Cyprus's control.
