Philenews

Greece-Turkey Tensions Rise Over Cyprus and F-16s

Published March 12, 2026, 12:14
Greece-Turkey Tensions Rise Over Cyprus and F-16s

Greece has responded to Turkish announcements regarding Greek islands and the deployment of fighter jets to occupied Cyprus. Athens reiterates that claims of demilitarization are unfounded and that the Turkish occupation does not legitimize military movements in Cyprus. Greece's support for the Republic of Cyprus is considered a historical obligation and purely defensive. Greece emphasizes that the Republic of Cyprus is a factor of stability in the region, despite the ongoing Turkish occupation. Athens' assistance to Nicosia is defensive in nature and does not aim at offensive actions. Regarding the deployment of Patriot systems to Karpathos, Greece insists that its defensive arrangement is non-negotiable, especially in a period of increased instability. Turkish claims about the demilitarization of the islands have been repeatedly rejected, as the status of the islands is governed by international treaties. Greece reserves the right to defend itself and protect its interests, while also emphasizing the importance of dialogue and the peaceful resolution of disputes with Turkey.