Cyprus, Israel Reportedly in Talks Over Iron Dome Sale

Cyprus is in advanced negotiations with Israel to purchase Iron Dome batteries, Greek news agency SIGMA reported last week. Cypriot officials are currently engaged in deliberations on how the system would help the divided island nation meet its security needs.

SIGMA also reported that Cyprus would purchase four warships from France, which together with the Iron Dome will be “a comprehensive response to the Turkish threat.”

Turkish Cypriots in the northern part of the island claim to be a separate republic. Despite having virtually no international recognition, they have been able to hold on to the land for decades with the help of Ankara. Greek Cypriots, who are aligned with Greece, consider this to be a form of occupation.

The Iron Dome deal, if it materializes, could further undermine relations between Israel and Turkey, which have been at loggerheads for many years stemming from geopolitical issues and Turkey’s efforts, although the two countries have been aiming to repair ties.