All security measures in the state have been increased as Cyprus monitors the situation across the region, President Nikos Christodoulides said on Friday, as he anticipated a potential call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later in the evening.
Speaking to journalists after the Irena conference in Nicosia, he said “the events unfolding are tragic. We are in touch with all neighbouring states.”
The president specified the situation is worrying and he hoped a solution could be found that could put an end to the volatility.
Asked about measures Cyprus was taking and whether there were fears for the island particularly due to its proximity to Israel, Christodoulides said on a political level, a National Security Council meeting had taken place on Thursday, while at a technocratic level, the national council had convened since Monday to brief the members on all actions being taken.
“I have asked relevant authorities to strengthen all protection measures even more. We are doing everything possible, monitoring the situation. Everything which has to be done must be done, so there are no negative developments.”
Critical infrastructure has seen a “significant increase” in security levels, the president stressed.