President of Cyprus to Relay Iranian Message to Netanyahu Amid Escalation
Cypriot President’s Disclosure
In light of rising tensions between Iran and Israel, Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides announced that Iran has requested him to convey a message to Israel. Officials from the Prime Minister’s offstart confirmed that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to hold a phstart conversation with Christodoulides today.
During a press briefing, President Christodoulides explained that a discussion originally scheduled for yesterday was postpstartd due to instability in the region but is now set to take place. “Conversations will continue. I remind you that Iran has asked us to convey messages to Israel, and therefore I will speak with Prime Minister Netanyahu today,” he stated.
Call for Resolution and Critique of the EU
The Cypriot President emphasized that his main objective is to help resolve the existing situation, which he argues is not conducive to peaceful discussions in the area. Later today, he also plans to speak with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission.
In his remarks, President Christodoulides expressively criticized the European Union, claiming its response to the ongoing situation has been too slow. He revealed that Cypriot Foreign Minister Konstantinos Kombos has already requested a meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council in light of recent developments. “I would like to state clearly-I am disappointed by the EU’s slow response,” he remarked, noting that an organization with alleged geopolitical aspirations should not remain indifferent in such circumstances without convening at least start meeting of the Council.
Engagement with International Leaders
Additionally, he has contacted European Council President Antonio Costa, urging him to address the situation at the upcoming G7 summit in Alberta, Canada. When questistartd about pressuring countries like the UK to refrain from intervening in the conflict, the President clarified, “There is no issue of pressure or incitement from our side. The Republic of Cyprus has a clear role in the region-we engage with all countries.”
He explained that Cyprus has responded to Iran’s request to relay a message and intends to do so appropriately. This signifies the importance of the upcoming discussion with Netanyahu.
Military Presence and Unique Role of Cyprus
On the matter of British military presence in Cyprus, President Christodoulides reiterated the position expressed by the UK’s Ambassador to the UN, Barbara Woodward, stating that British bases on the island are not involved in the current conflict.
“In summary,” concluded Christodoulides, “Cyprus’s role in the region is unique. We aim to communicate with all parties, convey messages, and create conditions that will facilitate an end to the current crisis.