Activists are demanding the removal of British bases in Cyprus as tensions rise in the region due to the ongoing war against Iran. On Saturday, hundreds gathered in the centre of Nicosia to peacefully protest the presence of these military establishments in Akrotiri and Dhekelia. The protesters, organised by the political group Afoa, expressed concerns about the implications of these bases on Cyprus’s security and sovereignty.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
Peaceful Protest March Through Nicosia
The demonstration featured a march that began at the Pasydy union building and concluded at the Presidential Palace in Strovolos. Participants carried banners with messages such as ‘Cyprus is not your launchpad’ and ‘British Bases out’, highlighting their opposition to the military presence. A die-in performance was also staged outside the presidential palace to symbolise the potential consequences of the bases being used as strategic military positions.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
Concerns Over Military Targeting
Afoa, one of the organising groups, articulated that the use of British bases by Western troops has transformed both the bases and their surrounding areas into potential military targets. They stated, “The use of British Bases by Western troops has turned both the bases themselves and the surrounding areas as well as the country’s critical infrastructure into a military target.” This sentiment was echoed by many attendees, who fear that Cyprus’s involvement in international conflicts could endanger the local population.
Critique of Militarisation and Imperialism
During the rally, Afoa condemned the narrative that positions the bases as protective measures. They argued that this rhetoric serves only to exacerbate the militarisation of social and political life on the island. “As the regional war spreads to many countries, the role of Cyprus in the imperialist plans deepens, putting the inhabitants and people of Cyprus as a whole on a dangerous and destructive path,” the group stated. This critique reflects a broader apprehension about Cyprus being drawn into international conflicts and serving as a launching point for military operations.
Calls for Government Action
The activists urged the Cypriot government to withdraw its support for what they termed ‘imperialist’ actions, stressing that the nation should not be embroiled in the ongoing war. They called for a complete abolition of the British bases, advocating for a peaceful resolution to conflicts rather than militarised involvement. “We do not accept Cyprus to be a base of war,” Afoa declared, aligning their demands with a broader global movement that seeks to promote cooperation and peace among nations.
Support from Various Groups
The protest received backing from a coalition of various organisations, including BDS Cyprus, Cyprus Palestine Solidarity Action, Far Right Watch CY, Genocide Free Cyprus, Queer Collective, and United for Palestine. This diverse support underscores a collective desire for peace and the withdrawal of foreign military presence, reflecting a unity of purpose among different groups advocating for justice and sovereignty in Cyprus.
Historical Context of British Bases in Cyprus
The British bases in Akrotiri and Dhekelia were established in 1960, when Cyprus gained independence from Britain. However, they have remained contentious points of debate regarding Cyprus’s sovereignty and its role in international military strategies. The recent escalation of conflicts in the region, particularly with Iran, has reignited discussions about the implications of these bases for the safety and autonomy of the Cypriot people.
Future Implications for Cyprus
The ongoing protests and the increasing calls for the removal of British bases reflect a significant shift in public sentiment regarding military presence in Cyprus. As regional tensions escalate, the implications for Cyprus’s role in global politics become increasingly complex. Activists stress the importance of prioritising peace over militarisation, advocating for a future where Cyprus is not a pawn in international conflicts.
The voices of the demonstrators echo a growing desire for a peaceful and sovereign Cyprus, free from foreign military influence. With ongoing support from diverse factions within the community, the movement against the British bases may see continued momentum in the face of escalating global tensions.
