Cypriot government officials on Sunday denied earlier reports that two missiles had been launched by Iran toward Cyprus and intercepted.
In comments to the Cyprus News Agency (CNA), Defense Minister Vassilis Palmas categorically rejected claims that missiles were fired in the direction of the island.
Government spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis, in a post on X, also said there was no indication Cyprus had been under threat, adding that “authorities are closely monitoring the situation on an ongoing basis.”
President Nikos Christodoulides said in a post on X after a phone call by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who had confirmed categorically that Cyprus was not a target for Iran:
Prime Minister @Keir_Starmer called regarding the ongoing regional developments. He confirmed clearly and unequivocally that Cyprus was not a target. We are maintaining direct communication. All relevant authorities are fully engaged and monitoring developments closely.
— NikosChristodoulides (@Christodulides) March 1, 2026
Earlier, British Defense Secretary John Healey told the UK’s Sky News that two missiles launched by Iran toward Cyprus had been successfully intercepted.
The island is home to two British military bases.
He added that “we do not believe that they were targeting Cyprus, but nevertheless, this incident is an example showing how real and increasing the threat from a regime that attacks widely across the region is, and this means that it requires us to take action.”
Healey did not provide further details on the timing of the incident or the interception system used.
sources and thumbnail picture cyprusmail.com, kathimerini.gr
