Cyprus Bolsters Security with Israel, Irking Russia and Turkey
Cyprus has been fortifying its security ties with Israel, a move that benefits NATO and irks Russia. The island nation has been bolstering its air defense network with Israeli assistance since late 2024, following threats from Hezbollah. This comes as Turkey, with its 'Blue Homeland' naval exercises and occupation of northern Syria, displays imperialistic ambitions in the region.
Cyprus' acquisition of Israeli air defense batteries has significantly bolstered Eastern Mediterranean security. This move counters Turkey's regional ambitions, which have been fueled by its occupation of northern Cyprus and plans to double its troops there. Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has criticized Cyprus' purchase of Israeli Barak MX systems, claiming they threaten regional security.
The '3+1' diplomatic forum, involving Greece, Cyprus, Israel, and the US, has been established to counter Turkish irredentism. This forum, along with the Eastern Mediterranean Gas Forum (EMGF), demonstrates successful regional cooperation without Turkish involvement. Cyprus' decision to strengthen security ties with Israel also aligns with NATO's interests, potentially countering Russia's influence in the Mediterranean.
Turkey's purchase of Russian S-400 missiles in 2019 led to its exclusion from the F-35 fighter jet program and US sanctions. The US has ended its arms embargo on Cyprus, allowing the nation to procure defense equipment from the US and Israel.
Cyprus' strategic partnership with Israel, backed by the US and Greece, strengthens regional security and counters Turkish ambitions. While Turkey views these moves as threatening, they are seen as necessary by Cyprus to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity. The '3+1' forum and EMGF show that regional cooperation can thrive without Turkish involvement, potentially reshaping the balance of power in the Eastern Mediterranean.
