Cyprus is assessing a threat by a senior Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps commander to launch missiles at the island, the government said on Monday evening, firmly rejecting any suggestion that Cyprus is a party to the US-led war against Iran.
IRGC General Sardar Jabbari was quoted by Iranian national media as warning that Washington had relocated most of its aircraft to Cyprus and that Tehran would respond with force. “The Americans have moved most of their aircraft to Cyprus. We will launch missiles at Cyprus with such intensity that the Americans will be forced to leave the island,” Jabbari said, according to the report, which in-cyprus has independently verified.
Government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis said authorities were evaluating the video for both its authenticity and its content, but used the occasion to draw a distinction between Cyprus and the belligerent parties.
“The Republic of Cyprus remains committed to its fundamentally humanitarian role as a factor of security and stability in the region and the Eastern Mediterranean,” he said. “It is not involved in military operations. Our actions relate exclusively to our humanitarian role and we will continue on that path.”
The statement came as four Greek air force F-16s landed in Cyprus on Monday afternoon following a telephone call between President Christodoulides and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. Two Greek navy frigates equipped with anti-drone systems are also expected to arrive. The National Security Council held an in-person session to review security measures and incoming intelligence, and will remain in continuous session.
Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias will visit Cyprus on Tuesday for meetings with his Cypriot counterpart Vasilis Palmas and with President Christodoulides.
President Christodoulides held diplomatic calls throughout the day, speaking twice with the President of the European Council and with the Presidents of the European Commission, France and Lebanon, as well as the German Chancellor. Diplomatic contacts with EU member states and third countries are continuing, Letymbiotis said.
Read more: