The Government of the Republic of Cyprus is actively seeking legal guarantees from the United Kingdom, under which British military bases on the island will not be used for conducting operations against countries in the Middle East, particularly Iran, even in the event of a change of government in London.
According to diplomatic sources, Cyprus is insisting on the signing of a special bilateral agreement or an additional protocol to the existing arrangements concerning the Akrotiri and Dhekelia bases. These bases remain sovereign British territory under the 1960 agreements on Cyprus’s independence.
Cypriot authorities are concerned that the bases could be involved in a potential conflict with Iran, which would automatically make the island a target for retaliatory strikes. The issue has become particularly acute following the recent escalation in the region and statements by several Western politicians about a possible expansion of military presence.
“We do not want Cyprus to become a bargaining chip in geopolitical games. Our citizens have the right to live in safety and not become a potential target because of actions in which the Republic of Cyprus has no involvement,” said an anonymous source in the Cypriot government.
According to reports, Nicosia has already held several rounds of negotiations with the British side. Cypriot diplomats emphasize that the guarantees must be long-term and not dependent on the outcome of future parliamentary elections in the United Kingdom.
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office has so far declined to comment officially, but sources in London describe the issue as “sensitive” and requiring careful consideration.