Cyprus became a focal point of military tension after the island was hit by a series of drone attacks targeting its military bases. In response, several European countries began mobilising their military capabilities to defend the strategically important Mediterranean island.

Greece was among the first to react — sending military ships and F-16 fighter jets to Cyprus. Four Greek F-16s are already stationed on the island, while two frigates are heading towards its shores.

French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed that France will send anti-rocket and anti-drone systems, along with a frigate. The decision followed a telephone conversation with Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulidis. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz similarly expressed support for deploying a German frigate, and an official response is expected shortly.

Britain, which maintains military bases on Cyprus, also responded. The British Prime Minister confirmed that Britain is sending a warship and helicopters following the attack on the Akrotiri military base. Early in the morning there was a false alarm with a call for urgent evacuation of the base, after which clarification followed that there was no immediate threat.

Such a large-scale military reinforcement of Cyprus represents a significant European response to the perceived security risks in the eastern Mediterranean. Analysts assess the situation as part of the broader escalating tensions linked to the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.