Cyprus Reaffirms Humanitarian Role as Regional Tensions Rise, Government Spokesman Says

Cyprus is closely monitoring regional developments and assessing all incoming information with “full responsibility,” Government Spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis said Monday night, stressing that the country remains committed to its strictly humanitarian role and is not involved in any military operations.

Speaking at the Presidential Palace, Letymbiotis confirmed the arrival of four Hellenic Air Force F‑16s earlier in the day, following a phone call between President Nikos Christodoulides and the Greek prime minister.

He thanked the Greek government for what he described as “close coordination and constant communication.” Two Greek frigates are also expected to arrive, he said.

Letymbiotis said the National Security Council met again in person Monday afternoon as part of its ongoing review of security measures and available intelligence.

“The protocols and procedures in place were evaluated by all members,” he said, adding that the council will remain in continuous consultation.

The Greek defense minister is scheduled to arrive in Cyprus on Tuesday for meetings with his Cypriot counterpart, Vasilis Palmas, and with the president. Details of the visit will be released Tuesday morning.

Diplomatic contacts continued throughout the day, Letymbiotis said. President Christodoulides held two calls with the president of the European Council and also spoke with the president of the European Commission, the Greek prime minister, the presidents of France and Lebanon, and the German chancellor.

“Engagement with our EU partners and with third countries continues as we follow developments very closely,” he said.

Asked about a video circulating online featuring comments by a senior Iranian military official, Letymbiotis said authorities are assessing both its authenticity and its content.

He reiterated that Cyprus remains focused on its humanitarian mission as a “pillar of security and stability” in the region and the Eastern Mediterranean.

“Cyprus is not involved in military operations,” he said. “Our actions relate exclusively to our humanitarian role, and that is the course we will continue to follow. All information is being monitored, authorities are in full coordination, and every piece of intelligence is being evaluated.”

Famagusta Gazette