Egypt's Cyprus Military Parade Participation Surprises Israel Amid Turkey Thaw

Egypt has decided to strengthen its military cooperation with Cyprus and Greece, a move that has drawn attention in Israel, particularly as it coincides with a noticeable warming of relations between Egypt and Turkey. For the first time, Egyptian soldiers will participate in a military parade in Nicosia on Cyprus's Independence Day, October 1st. They will march alongside units of the Cyprus National Guard and Greek soldiers stationed on the island.

This participation is seen by Nicosia as more than just ceremonial; it symbolizes the reinforcement of security ties with Cairo. Egypt's decision is especially significant given its developing relationship with Ankara. Despite the improved ties with Turkey, Cairo is signaling that it will not abandon its partnership with Cyprus and Greece, which has been actively cultivated over the past decade.

The announcement followed a trilateral meeting in El Alamein between Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. The leaders emphasized the need for ongoing coordination and cooperation in the Eastern Mediterranean, with a particular focus on security, military collaboration, and the Cyprus conflict. They also expressed support for UN efforts to resolve the Cyprus issue.

Discussions also covered maritime law, with Egypt, Cyprus, and Greece affirming that maritime jurisdiction delimitation agreements must align with international law and the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. Military cooperation between Egypt and Cyprus has been gradually expanding, with agreements last year to enhance armed forces contacts, military academy exchanges, defense industry collaboration, and the establishment of a joint security committee.

Separately, the article notes that Egypt is being considered as a primary potential buyer for a new Russian anti-drone system, which Russia will present outside the country for the first time.