Hamburg: The rapid response by Greece, France, Italy, and Spain in sending military forces to protect the Republic of Cyprus is a powerful example of European autonomy and steadfast solidarity, President of the European Council Antonio Costa said on Friday evening in Hamburg.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Costa made these remarks during the Matthiae Mahl ceremony, attended by former German Chancellor Angela Merkel. He highlighted the ongoing developments in the Middle East and the broader geopolitical challenges facing the European Union, emphasizing that retaliatory actions by Iran and its proxies threaten international security.
Costa expressed grave concern over the war in the Middle East, attributing the root causes of the situation to Iran. He cautioned against unilateral actions and pointed out that retaliatory measures by Iran and its allies, including attacks on Cyprus, compromise international peace and security. He lauded the swift military support from Greece, France, Italy, and Spain to protect Cyprus as a testament to European unity and independence.
Furthermore, Costa urged all parties involved to exercise maximum restraint to prevent further escalation, which could pose risks to the Middle East, Europe, and beyond. He reiterated the EU's support for the Iranian people and their rights, advocating for their human rights and freedoms to be respected.
Costa also underscored that diplomacy remains the only sustainable solution to the crisis. He emphasized the importance of protecting civilians, ensuring nuclear safety, and upholding international law to avert wider regional and global consequences.
The remarks come in the wake of an incident where a Shahed-type drone struck military facilities in the British Bases in Akrotiri, Cyprus, causing minor damage. This attack, linked to Hezbollah operating in Lebanon, led to increased security measures. In response, Greece and France announced the deployment of warships, aircraft, and other air defense assets to protect Cyprus, with the UK also dispatching a warship. Nicosia has clarified its non-involvement in the broader Middle East conflict.