ISTANBUL: Turkiye has deployed six F-16 fighter jets along with air defence systems to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) in response to growing regional tensions linked to the ongoing conflict involving Iran.
In a statement issued on Monday, Turkiye’s National Defense Ministry said the deployment is part of a phased strategy aimed at strengthening the security of the Turkish Cypriot territory amid developments in the wider region.
“As part of a phased plan to enhance the security of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus in light of recent developments in our region, six F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft and air defence systems have been deployed to the TRNC as of today,” the ministry said.
Officials indicated that the move is precautionary and that Ankara will continue to assess the security situation. The ministry added that further military steps could be taken depending on how regional events unfold.
According to Reuters, the deployment comes at a time of heightened tensions following military strikes involving the United States and Israel against Iran. Security concerns in Cyprus have also intensified after a drone struck the British Akrotiri air base on the island last week. Security officials believe the drone may have been launched by Hezbollah, a Lebanese group allied with Iran.
The island of Cyprus has been divided since 1974 between the internationally recognised Republic of Cyprus in the south and the Turkish Cypriot administration in the north. Turkiye is the only country that recognises the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.
In recent days, several European countries have also increased their military presence on the island. Greek F-16V fighter jets were deployed to Paphos Airport in the southern part of Cyprus following the recent regional escalation.
Ankara’s latest move signals growing concern about the potential spillover effects of the wider Middle East conflict and underscores Turkiy’s commitment to protecting the Turkish Cypriot community.
