“While the Republic of Cyprus was not the target, let me be clear: we stand collectively, firmly and unequivocally with our Member States in the face of any threat,” von der Leyen wrote on X on Monday.
Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulidis confirmed that the British air base on the island was attacked overnight by a drone, resulting in slight material damage. Earlier reports said two unmanned aircraft took part in the attack on the Akrotiri base and that one was shot down.
“I want to make it clear that our country is not participating and does not intend to participate in any military action,” Christodoulidis said in a statement, adding he was in constant contact with European leaders.
The Associated Press noted that the Shahed attack on the RAF base came shortly after British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Sunday that, at the request of the United States, he had agreed British bases could be used for strikes on Iranian missile depots or launchers “for defensive purposes,” while saying British forces were not involved in offensive attacks on Iran.
The United States and Israel began strikes on Iran on Saturday and said they would continue in coming days. Iran responded by launching attacks on Israel and other Middle East states, particularly on U.S. bases deployed in the region.
(jh)
Source: PAP