A military expert has sought to reassure Cypriots that they are not in danger, after public alarm over Iran’s attack on Israel.
The Islamic Republic fired around 180 missiles at Israel on Monday night, in retaliation for Benjamin Netanyahu’s war on Hezbollah.
The public was alarmed after flashes of light and explosions were visible from coastal towns during the attack.
However, retired Colonel Andis Loizos was quick to allay fears that Tehran would target the island.
He told the Cyprus News Agency (CNA) that Iran could not afford to strike any targets other than Israel.
The former military officer added that the US would not allow such an incident to occur.
The USA and Cyprus have strengthened their diplomatic and military ties in recent months, with an agreement allowing the US to use the island’s infrastructure to “supply and support” its army in the region.
One potential danger could be Turkey and its support for Lebanon, the former Colonel said.
Turkey’s President Erdogan has voiced support for Lebanon in the event Israel sends its troops into the country.
This could lead to an escalation of hostilities if Ankara supplies arms, ammunition and military advisers to the country’s military.
Loizos noted how the UK continues to provide intelligence to Israel and other allies, as the conflict unfolds.
His comments come as Israel continues its attacks on Hezbollah in Lebanon, despite Iran’s retaliation yesterday.
On Wednesday, Israel’s military confirmed its troops are engaged in “close-range encounters” in southern Lebanon.
“Forces from the Commando Brigade, including soldiers from the Egoz Unit, located and destroyed a Hezbollah attack infrastructure,” they said.
“The troops, in cooperation with the Israeli Air Force, eliminated terrorists and dismantled terrorist infrastructure through precision-guided munitions and close-range engagements.”
They added that “more than 150 terror infrastructures” have been destroyed by recent airstrikes.
