Turkey and Greece Unite in Criticism Over Israeli Expansion in Cyprus
Turkey and Greece, despite their historically strained relations, have found common ground in opposing Israel's growing presence in Cyprus. Both countries' media have highlighted a Greek study describing Israel's activities on the island as a "quiet settlement," beyond mere economic investment. The Turkish newspaper Hurriyet, known for its critical stance on Israel, echoed this research, warning that Israel's expanding real estate purchases and community infrastructure in Cypriot cities like Larnaca, Limassol, and Paphos signal a permanent Israeli foothold.
The study points to the establishment of schools, Chabad centers, businesses, and other facilities serving the Jewish community as evidence of this long-term presence. Both Greek and Turkish outlets caution that if this trend continues, it could sour local Cypriot public opinion and harm Israel-Cyprus relations. This concern follows recent controversy over a billboard in Cyprus featuring former Israeli military chief Gadi Eizenkot, which sparked debate about foreign political campaigns targeting the large Israeli population on the island.
Turkey has previously issued warnings to Cyprus, including antisemitic accusations in May about Israeli companies secretly buying abandoned villages and restricting local access to religious sites, claims later debunked as false. These tensions are rooted in the longstanding Cyprus dispute, which began with Turkey's 1974 invasion dividing the island into a Greek Cypriot south and a Turkish-controlled north recognized only by Ankara. Turkey views the strengthening strategic and security ties between Cyprus and Israel as a direct threat to its regional influence and is actively seeking to undermine this alliance.
The unfolding situation reflects broader geopolitical rivalries in the Eastern Mediterranean, with Cyprus caught between competing interests of Israel, Turkey, and Greece. The local Cypriot population's reaction to the growing Israeli presence remains a critical factor in the future of these complex relationships.
