UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has confirmed that Cyprus was not a target of Iranian missile strikes, addressing concerns following earlier statements from UK Defence Secretary John Healey.
- UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has confirmed that Cyprus was not a target of Iranian missile strikes, addressing concerns following earlier statements from UK Defence Secretary John Healey.
In a call with President Nikos Christodoulides, Starmer reassured him that Cyprus remains secure. “Prime Minister Keir Starmer called regarding the ongoing regional developments. He confirmed clearly and unequivocally that Cyprus was not a target,” Christodoulides stated on X.
This confirmation follows a day of considerable tension, during which Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas firmly denied reports that missiles had been launched towards Cyprus. His statements contradicted claims made by Healey, who had suggested on Sky News that two missiles were fired in the direction of British Sovereign Base Areas in Cyprus during retaliatory strikes by Iran.
Healey, however, noted, “We are pretty sure they weren’t targeted at our bases,” attempting to provide some clarity amid the confusion. Palmas’ comments to the Cyprus News Agency further reinforced the message that there was no imminent threat to the island, stating, “It is clarified that this is not true and there is no indication whatsoever that there was a threat to the country.”
Government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis echoed these sentiments, emphasising that reports of missile launches towards Cyprus were unfounded. He reassured the public that the situation was being closely monitored by relevant authorities.
In light of the escalating tensions in the region, UK military planes have been deployed to safeguard both Cyprus and Qatar from potential Iranian missile attacks. Healey elaborated on the role of these military aircraft, explaining, “When our UK planes fly from Qatar, they are protecting against any missiles or drones directed towards Qatar. When they fly from Cyprus, they’re doing the same for Cyprus.” This proactive measure highlights the UK’s commitment to regional security amidst growing concerns.
The backdrop to these developments is Iran’s recent retaliatory missile strikes on US bases across the Gulf, triggered by joint US and Israeli actions that resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei. As tensions rise in the Middle East, the situation remains fluid, with ongoing assessments being conducted by various governments involved.
