{"id":1900556,"date":"2026-04-24T15:00:15","date_gmt":"2026-04-24T12:00:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1900556"},"modified":"2026-04-24T15:00:15","modified_gmt":"2026-04-24T12:00:15","slug":"cyprus-how-the-iran-war-is-shaping-europes-closest-frontier-to-the-conflict","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1900556","title":{"rendered":"Cyprus: How the Iran war is shaping Europe\u2019s closest frontier to the conflict"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/71\/55\/87\/1200x675_cmsv2_1902a466-211e-59c6-8f2f-670a0a97e528-9715587.jpg&#8221;]<\/p>\n<article id=\"abe-2888781-pos1-c-latest-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-1 m-modeDesktop-1 m-modeXL-1 the-media-object--has-video\" data-nid=\"2888781\" data-cid=\"9735339\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2888781-label-pos1-c-latest-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/53\/39\/189x106_cmsv2_d5dfbd04-6521-5011-b8ed-964073367a0a-9735339.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Britain's Prince Harry lays flowers at the grave of an unidentified Ukrainian soldier killed in battle during the Russian-Ukrainian war at a military cemetery near Kyiv\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    No Comment<\/p>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Prince Harry visits Kyiv to back Ukraine and spotlight mine clearance\n  <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2888751-pos2-c-latest-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-1 m-modeDesktop-1 m-modeXL-1 the-media-object--has-video\" data-nid=\"2888751\" data-cid=\"9735051\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2888751-label-pos2-c-latest-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/50\/51\/189x106_cmsv2_d60a61f5-f8fc-579d-b3a9-d72319581e80-9735051.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"People gather around blocks of ice, installed in a Toronto parking lot as part of promotion for rapper Drake's upcoming album 'ICEMAN'\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    Culture news<\/p>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Drake\u2019s ice sculpture stunt explained &#8211; and why it got shut down\n  <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2888753-pos3-c-latest-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-1 m-modeDesktop-1 m-modeXL-1 the-media-object--has-video\" data-nid=\"2888753\" data-cid=\"9735066\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2888753-label-pos3-c-latest-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/50\/66\/189x106_cmsv2_6e4782b3-783b-55e5-9063-3234a8746b3e-9735066.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"2nd Caspian and Central Asia Oil Trading and Logistics Forum. Source: Euronews\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    Business<\/p>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Why investing in Caspian transit routes is crucial for energy security\n  <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2886375-pos4-c-latest-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-1 m-modeDesktop-1 m-modeXL-1 the-media-object--has-video\" data-nid=\"2886375\" data-cid=\"9722821\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2886375-label-pos4-c-latest-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/72\/28\/21\/189x106_cmsv2_80ae4324-f3d1-551a-84aa-43a94ba55990-9722821.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Antonas Sutkus \" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    Culture news<\/p>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    War stories of displaced Ukrainian Refugees feature in Lithuanian exhibition in Baku\n  <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2888781-pos1-c-latest-stories-sidebar\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--has-video\" data-nid=\"2888781\" data-cid=\"9735339\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2888781-label-pos1-c-latest-stories-sidebar\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/53\/39\/189x106_cmsv2_d5dfbd04-6521-5011-b8ed-964073367a0a-9735339.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Britain's Prince Harry lays flowers at the grave of an unidentified Ukrainian soldier killed in battle during the Russian-Ukrainian war at a military cemetery near Kyiv\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    No Comment<\/p>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Prince Harry visits Kyiv to back Ukraine and spotlight mine clearance\n  <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2888751-pos2-c-latest-stories-sidebar\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--has-video\" data-nid=\"2888751\" data-cid=\"9735051\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2888751-label-pos2-c-latest-stories-sidebar\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/50\/51\/189x106_cmsv2_d60a61f5-f8fc-579d-b3a9-d72319581e80-9735051.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"People gather around blocks of ice, installed in a Toronto parking lot as part of promotion for rapper Drake's upcoming album 'ICEMAN'\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    Culture news<\/p>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Drake\u2019s ice sculpture stunt explained &#8211; and why it got shut down\n  <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2888753-pos3-c-latest-stories-sidebar\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--has-video\" data-nid=\"2888753\" data-cid=\"9735066\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2888753-label-pos3-c-latest-stories-sidebar\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/50\/66\/189x106_cmsv2_6e4782b3-783b-55e5-9063-3234a8746b3e-9735066.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"2nd Caspian and Central Asia Oil Trading and Logistics Forum. Source: Euronews\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    Business<\/p>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Why investing in Caspian transit routes is crucial for energy security\n  <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2886375-pos4-c-latest-stories-sidebar\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--has-video\" data-nid=\"2886375\" data-cid=\"9722821\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2886375-label-pos4-c-latest-stories-sidebar\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/72\/28\/21\/189x106_cmsv2_80ae4324-f3d1-551a-84aa-43a94ba55990-9722821.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Antonas Sutkus \" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    Culture news<\/p>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    War stories of displaced Ukrainian Refugees feature in Lithuanian exhibition in Baku\n  <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article class=\"helper-site-row o-article-newsy\">\n<div class=\"helper-site-container o-article-newsy__container\">\n<div class=\"o-article-newsy__main\">\n<header class=\"h-grid o-article-newsy__main__header\">\n<nav aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\" class=\"c-article-breadcrumbs\">\n<div id=\"adb-article-breadcrumb\" class=\"c-article-breadcrumbs__list\">\n<p>                          Europe<\/p>\n<p>                          My Europe Series<\/p>\n<p>                          Euronews investigates<\/p><\/div>\n<\/nav>\n<h1 class=\"c-article-redesign-title\">\n                            Cyprus: How the Iran war is shaping Europe\u2019s closest frontier to the conflict<\/h1>\n<div class=\"c-article-image-video u-position-relative \">\n<div class=\"js-superdiv u-aspect-ratio-16x9 u-position-relative u-max-width-1280 u-margin-x-auto\" data-video='{\"id\":\"xa6wdrg\",\"articleId\":2884855,\"title\":\"Cyprus: How the Iran war is shaping Europeu2019s closest frontier to the conflict\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/video.euronews.com\/mp4\/SHD\/41\/20\/30\/04\/SHD_PYR_4120304_20260424141624.mp4\",\"programId\":\"euronews-investigates\",\"player\":\"dailymotion\",\"geoBlock\":[\"\"],\"sources\":[],\"description\":\"On 1 March, an Iranian-made Shahed drone launched from Lebanon hit the British airbase of Akrotiri in Cyprus, bringing the Iran war unexpectedly closer to Europe. This report explores the tensions shaping the European Unionu2019s closest frontier to the conflict.\",\"isLive\":false,\"articleUrl\":\"https:\/\/www.euronews.com\/video\/2026\/04\/24\/cyprus-how-the-middle-east-war-is-shaping-europes-closest-frontier-to-the-conflict\",\"duration\":1200000}' data-sponsored=\"Partner content\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"js-poster-img c-article-media__img\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/71\/55\/87\/1536x864_cmsv2_1902a466-211e-59c6-8f2f-670a0a97e528-9715587.jpg\" width=\"1536\" height=\"864\" loading=\"eager\" alt=\"Cyprus: How the Iran war is shaping Europe\u2019s closest frontier to the conflict\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-article-caption u-position-absolute\"><i id=\"article-caption-content\" class=\"c-article-caption__content\"><span class=\"c-article-caption__text\"><span class=\"c-article-caption__copyright\">Copyright\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"c-article-caption__credit\">Monica Pinna (Limassol, March 2026). Composite and editing: AI-assisted<\/span><\/span><\/i><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-article-image-copyright\">\n      Copyright\u00a0Monica Pinna (Limassol, March 2026). Composite and editing: AI-assisted\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/header>\n<div class=\"h-grid o-article-newsy__main__body u-article-content\">\n<div class=\"o-article-newsy__contributors-publication-date\">\n<div class=\"c-article-contributors\">\n  By&amp;nbspMonica Pinna\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-article-publication-date\" data-timestamp=\"1777042815\">\n                    Published on                 <time datetime=\"2026-04-24 17:00:15 +02:00\">24\/04\/2026 &#8211; 17:00 GMT+2<\/time><span class=\"c-article-publication-date__bullet\">\u2022<\/span>Updated<br \/>\n                                     <time datetime=\"17:16\">17:16<\/time><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-article-partage-commentaire u-align-items-center u-display-flex\"><span class=\"c-article-partage-commentaire__links u-align-items-center u-display-flex u-justify-content-center js-c-article-partage-commentaire-share\"><span>Share<\/span><\/span><span>Comments<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-article-partage-commentaire-popup-overlay js-c-article-partage-commentaire-popup-overlay u-display-none\">\n<div id=\"js-c-article-partage-commentaire-popup\" class=\"c-article-partage-commentaire-popup js-c-article-partage-commentaire-popup\">\n<div class=\"c-article-partage-commentaire-popup__header u-display-flex\"><span>Share<\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/icon-close.svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" alt=\"Close Button\" class=\"u-cursor-pointer js-c-article-partage-commentaire-close\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-article-partage-commentaire-popup__content u-display-flex\">\n<div id=\"partage-commentaire-popup-content-container\" class=\"c-article-partage-commentaire-popup__content__container u-display-flex\"><span class=\"u-display-flex u-gap-1 u-show-for-mobile-only\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-facebook.svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" alt=\"facebook\" loading=\"lazy\"><span>Facebook<\/span><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-facebook.svg\" width=\"48\" height=\"48\" alt=\"facebook\" class=\"u-show-for-desktop\" loading=\"lazy\"><span class=\"u-display-flex u-gap-1 u-show-for-mobile-only\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-twitter.svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" alt=\"twitter\" loading=\"lazy\"><span>Twitter<\/span><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-twitter.svg\" width=\"48\" height=\"48\" alt=\"twitter\" class=\"u-show-for-desktop\" loading=\"lazy\"><span class=\"u-display-flex u-gap-1 u-show-for-mobile-only\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-flipboard.svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" alt=\"flipboard\" loading=\"lazy\"><span>Flipboard<\/span><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-flipboard.svg\" width=\"48\" height=\"48\" alt=\"flipboard\" class=\"u-show-for-desktop\" loading=\"lazy\"><span class=\"u-display-flex u-gap-1 u-show-for-mobile-only\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-send.svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" alt=\"send\" loading=\"lazy\"><span>Send<\/span><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-send.svg\" width=\"48\" height=\"48\" alt=\"send\" class=\"u-show-for-desktop\" loading=\"lazy\"><span class=\"u-display-flex u-gap-1 u-show-for-mobile-only\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-reddit.svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" alt=\"reddit\" loading=\"lazy\"><span>Reddit<\/span><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-reddit.svg\" width=\"48\" height=\"48\" alt=\"reddit\" class=\"u-show-for-desktop\" loading=\"lazy\"><span class=\"u-display-flex u-gap-1 u-show-for-mobile-only\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-linkedin.svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" alt=\"linkedin\" loading=\"lazy\"><span>Linkedin<\/span><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-linkedin.svg\" width=\"48\" height=\"48\" alt=\"linkedin\" class=\"u-show-for-desktop\" loading=\"lazy\"><span class=\"u-display-flex u-gap-1 u-show-for-mobile-only\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-messenger.svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" alt=\"messenger\" loading=\"lazy\"><span>Messenger<\/span><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-messenger.svg\" width=\"48\" height=\"48\" alt=\"messenger\" class=\"u-show-for-desktop\" loading=\"lazy\"><span class=\"u-display-flex u-gap-1 u-show-for-mobile-only\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-telegram.svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" alt=\"telegram\" loading=\"lazy\"><span>Telegram<\/span><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-telegram.svg\" width=\"48\" height=\"48\" alt=\"telegram\" class=\"u-show-for-desktop\" loading=\"lazy\"><span class=\"u-display-flex u-gap-1 u-show-for-mobile-only\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-vk.svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" alt=\"vk\" loading=\"lazy\"><span>VK<\/span><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-vk.svg\" width=\"48\" height=\"48\" alt=\"vk\" class=\"u-show-for-desktop\" loading=\"lazy\"><span class=\"u-display-flex u-gap-1 u-show-for-mobile-only\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-bluesky.svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" alt=\"bluesky\" loading=\"lazy\"><span>Bluesky<\/span><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-bluesky.svg\" width=\"48\" height=\"48\" alt=\"bluesky\" class=\"u-show-for-desktop\" loading=\"lazy\"><span class=\"u-display-flex u-gap-1 u-show-for-mobile-only\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-threads.svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" alt=\"threads\" loading=\"lazy\"><span>Threads<\/span><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-threads.svg\" width=\"48\" height=\"48\" alt=\"threads\" class=\"u-show-for-desktop\" loading=\"lazy\"><span class=\"u-display-flex u-gap-1 u-show-for-mobile-only\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-whatsapp.svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" alt=\"whatsapp\" loading=\"lazy\"><span>Whatsapp<\/span><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-whatsapp.svg\" width=\"48\" height=\"48\" alt=\"whatsapp\" class=\"u-show-for-desktop\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-article-partage-commentaire-popup__content__embed_container u-display-none\"><span class=\"c-article-partage-commentaire-popup__content__embed__tooltip\"><br \/>\n                            Copy\/paste the article video embed link below:<br \/>\n                        <\/span><span class=\"c-article-partage-commentaire-popup__content__embed u-display-flex\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/icon-copy-to-clipboard.svg\" width=\"16\" height=\"16\" alt=\"Copy to clipboard\" class=\"u-cursor-pointer js-c-article-partage-commentaire-copy\" loading=\"lazy\"><span class=\"c-article-partage-commentaire-popup__content__embed--success-copied u-display-none js-c-article-partage-commentaire-video-embed-success-link-copied\"><br \/>\n                                Copied<br \/>\n                            <\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 class=\"c-article-summary\">\n        On 1 March, an Iranian-made Shahed drone launched from Lebanon hit the British airbase of Akrotiri in Cyprus, bringing the Iran war unexpectedly closer to Europe. This report explores the tensions shaping the European Union\u2019s closest frontier to the conflict.<br \/>\n    <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-article-content js-article-content\">\n<p>Cyprus, long seen as a stable country, is now emerging as a strategic frontline \u2014 caught between regional tensions, global powers and its own unresolved north-south division.<\/p>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-ad u-show-for-mobile-only\">\n<div class=\"c-ad__placeholder\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"c-ad__placeholder__logo\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/logos\/logo-euronews-stacked-outlined-72x72-grey-9.svg\" width=\"72\" height=\"72\" alt loading=\"lazy\"><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-ad u-show-for-desktop\">\n<div class=\"c-ad__placeholder\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"c-ad__placeholder__logo\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/logos\/logo-euronews-stacked-outlined-72x72-grey-9.svg\" width=\"72\" height=\"72\" alt loading=\"lazy\"><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>The British sovereign base areas of Akrotiri and Dhekelia cover around 3% of the Republic of Cyprus, in the south of the island. They go well beyond the perimeter of the bases, overlapping on almost 60% of the municipality of Kourion, home to 40,000 people. <\/p>\n<p>In the village of Akrotiri, located just outside the base, residents are used to the constant presence of jets and patrols and around a third of the population works on the base.<\/p>\n<p>When the drone struck, confusion followed.<\/p>\n<div class=\"widget widget--type-image widget--size-fullwidth widget--animation-fade-in widget--align-center\" data-ratio=\"0.7120047309284447\">\n<div class=\"widget__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"widget__ratio widget__ratio--auto\">\n<div class=\"widget__contents\">\n<figure class=\"widget__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"widgetImage__image\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/71\/56\/11\/808x577_cmsv2_a650aa6c-14ee-5cfa-bf93-2f662ff93f4e-9715611.jpg\" alt=\"Deputy Mayor of Akrotiri Giorgos Kostantinou showing reporter Monica Pinna the proximity of his village to the British Royal Airforce Base of Akrotiri\"><figcaption class=\"widget__caption\"><span class=\"widget__captionWrap\"><span class=\"widget__captionText\">Deputy Mayor of Akrotiri Giorgos Kostantinou showing reporter Monica Pinna the proximity of his village to the British Royal Airforce Base of Akrotiri<\/span><span class=\"widget__captionCredit\">Ivan Charalambous\/Euronews March 2026<\/span><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>\u201cThere were sirens, but no clear instructions,\u201d said deputy mayor of Akrotiri Giorgos Kostantinou. The evacuation order came only the next day. Around 1,000 people were temporarily displaced, relying on relatives, hotels and a nearby monastery.<\/p>\n<p>The incident exposed a legal grey zone: Cypriot authorities have no jurisdiction over the British sovereign base areas, limiting their ability to act in emergencies.<\/p>\n<h2>Strategic asset or growing threat?<\/h2>\n<p>The bases have long been a sensitive issue in Cyprus. Retained by the UK after the island\u2019s independence in 1960, they are seen by some as a colonial legacy.<\/p>\n<p>The right-wing Cypriot government has raised questions about the future of the bases after the drone strike, with the issue remaining a long-standing source of political friction.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cFor many people, the base is becoming a threat,\u201d said Pantelis Georgiou, mayor of the Kourion municipality. \u201cWe need clarity on who is responsible, especially for civil protection.\u201d <\/p>\n<div class=\"widget widget--type-image widget--size-fullwidth widget--animation-fade-in widget--align-center\" data-ratio=\"0.6232616940581542\">\n<div class=\"widget__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"widget__ratio widget__ratio--auto\">\n<div class=\"widget__contents\">\n<figure class=\"widget__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"widgetImage__image\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/71\/56\/11\/808x505_cmsv2_4c873b38-d91d-51ee-a280-93b43093a897-9715611.jpg\" alt=\"Mayor of Kourion municipality, Pantelis Georgiou, explains \u201cPeople are starting to feel that having a military base of that size in the area is a threat.\u201d\"><figcaption class=\"widget__caption\"><span class=\"widget__captionWrap\"><span class=\"widget__captionText\">Mayor of Kourion municipality, Pantelis Georgiou, explains \u201cPeople are starting to feel that having a military base of that size in the area is a threat.\u201d<\/span><span class=\"widget__captionCredit\">Ivan Charalambous\/Euronews March 2026<\/span><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Cyprus, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union, is not a NATO member and relies on its European allies and the UK for its defence. <\/p>\n<p>Following the attack, several European countries deployed military assets to the region, including Greece, while the UK allowed the US to use its bases for &#8220;defensive operations&#8221;.<\/p>\n<h2>Tourism caught in the crossfire<\/h2>\n<p>Despite security concerns, authorities are keen to project calm. Tourism \u2014 which accounts for about 12% of Cyprus\u2019s GDP \u2014 remains a priority.<\/p>\n<p>Industry representatives have downplayed the incident, but the impact was immediate. Hotel bookings dropped by nearly 40% in March, just as the season was beginning.<\/p>\n<p>Officials insist the long-term impact will depend on how the conflict evolves.<\/p>\n<p>The Middle East crisis is also reverberating through Cyprus\u2019 lasting political divide.<\/p>\n<p>The island has been split since 1974 between the internationally recognised Republic of Cyprus and the self-declared north Cyprus, recognised only by Turkey. <\/p>\n<p>Military posturing on both sides has intensified, with Turkey reinforcing its presence in the north after European deployments in the south.<\/p>\n<div class=\"widget widget--type-image widget--size-fullwidth widget--animation-fade-in widget--align-center\" data-ratio=\"0.516994633273703\">\n<div class=\"widget__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"widget__ratio widget__ratio--auto\">\n<div class=\"widget__contents\">\n<figure class=\"widget__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"widgetImage__image\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/71\/56\/11\/808x419_cmsv2_a7419b0a-b2cb-5617-95f8-4ca8a56b0fb3-9715611.jpg\" alt=\"Nicosia: Checkpoint to cross into self-declared \u2018Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus\u2019 recognised only by Turkey\"><figcaption class=\"widget__caption\"><span class=\"widget__captionWrap\"><span class=\"widget__captionText\">Nicosia: Checkpoint to cross into self-declared \u2018Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus\u2019 recognised only by Turkey<\/span><span class=\"widget__captionCredit\">Monica Pinna\/Euronews March 2026<\/span><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Analysts warn that the Middle East conflict could deepen divisions and further delay reunification efforts.<\/p>\n<p>For now, daily life continues much as before. But beneath the surface, the war is reshaping the island \u2014 politically, economically and socially.<\/p>\n<p>Cyprus remains physically distant from the frontlines, yet increasingly exposed to their consequences. The question is no longer whether the conflict affects the island, but how far those effects will go.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>                                  Go to accessibility shortcuts<\/p>\n<div class=\"c-article-partage-commentaire u-align-items-center u-display-flex\"><span class=\"c-article-partage-commentaire__links u-align-items-center u-display-flex u-justify-content-center js-c-article-partage-commentaire-share\"><span>Share<\/span><\/span><span>Comments<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"adb-article-you-might-also-like\" class=\"perf-cv-auto c-article-you-might-also-like\">\n<h2 class=\"c-article-you-might-also-like__title\">\n        Read more<br \/>\n      <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-article-you-might-also-like__item\">\n<h3>\n<p>                  Dangerous lignite: Bosnia and Herzegovina has problems with its energy transition<\/p>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-article-you-might-also-like__item\">\n<h3>\n<p>                  In Italy, the \u201cLand of Fires\u201d continues to claim lives<\/p>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"perf-cv-auto\">\n<ul id=\"adb-article-tags\" class=\"c-tags-list\">\n<li class=\"c-tags-list__item\">\n<p>    Israel Iran conflict<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"c-tags-list__item\">\n<p>    Cyprus<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"c-tags-list__item\">\n<p>    Defence<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"c-tags-list__item\">\n<p>    European Union<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"c-tags-list__item\">\n<p>    Armed conflicts<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"c-tags-list__item\">\n<p>    Security<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"o-article-newsy__aside\">\n<div class=\"c-ad-wrapper o-article-newsy__aside__content-1\" data-ad-name=\"adzone-halfpage\">\n<div class=\"c-ad c-ad-halfpage u-show-for-desktop\">\n<div class=\"c-ad__placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"c-ad__placeholder__logo\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/logos\/logo-euronews-stacked-outlined-72x72-grey-9.svg\" width=\"72\" height=\"72\" alt><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-ad u-show-for-mobile-only\">\n<div class=\"c-ad__placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"c-ad__placeholder__logo\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/logos\/logo-euronews-stacked-outlined-72x72-grey-9.svg\" width=\"72\" height=\"72\" alt><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"adb-article-top-stories\" class=\"perf-cv-auto c-top-stories\">\n<h2 class=\"c-top-stories__title\">Top stories<\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-top-stories__item\">\n<article id=\"abe-2888705-pos2-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--has-video the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2888705\" data-cid=\"9734694\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2888705-label-pos2-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/46\/94\/320x180_cmsv2_64e7f215-4164-5c08-a032-55bb266684f8-9734694.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"High Representative Kaja Kallas spoke with Euronews in Cyprus.\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Orb\u00e1n-style vetoes undermine EU democracy, Kallas tells Euronews<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-top-stories__item\">\n<article id=\"abe-2888720-pos3-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2888720\" data-cid=\"9734888\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2888720-label-pos3-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/48\/88\/320x180_cmsv2_134ebc4b-0fa4-5e20-95fa-8d2389bf34ad-9734888.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"High Representative Kaja Kallas.\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    EU mutual assistance clause doesn&#8217;t contradict NATO, says Kallas<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-top-stories__item\">\n<article id=\"abe-2888458-pos4-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--has-video the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2888458\" data-cid=\"9733336\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2888458-label-pos4-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/33\/36\/320x180_cmsv2_d4fbe9b7-4cdf-5571-9924-66022c10542d-9733336.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Former President of the European Council, Charles Michel\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Michel: European Council should &#8216;think carefully&#8217; if ending unanimity<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-top-stories__item\">\n<article id=\"abe-2888752-pos5-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2888752\" data-cid=\"9735053\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2888752-label-pos5-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/50\/53\/320x180_cmsv2_56149b50-adaa-54eb-b65d-de446aa1b3bc-9735053.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth speaks to members of the media during a press briefing at the Pentagon, 16 April, 2026 \" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Hegseth warns Iran to make &#8216;wise deal&#8217; ahead of possible talks<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-top-stories__item\">\n<article id=\"abe-2888765-pos6-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2888765\" data-cid=\"9735147\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2888765-label-pos6-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/51\/47\/320x180_cmsv2_adc372c8-88d2-5fc9-bb8e-3bb6db483230-9735147.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"People are silhouetted against a video screen during the launch of the FIFA World Cup trophy tour in Vancouver, 10 April, 2026\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Tickets to World Cup final in US appear on resale site for \u20ac1.9m each<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"perf-cv-auto c-ad-wrapper o-article-newsy__aside__content-2\" data-ad-name=\"adzone-halfpage\">\n<div class=\"c-ad c-ad-halfpage u-show-for-desktop\">\n<div class=\"c-ad__placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"c-ad__placeholder__logo\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/logos\/logo-euronews-stacked-outlined-72x72-grey-9.svg\" width=\"72\" height=\"72\" alt><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-ad u-show-for-mobile-only\">\n<div class=\"c-ad__placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"c-ad__placeholder__logo\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/logos\/logo-euronews-stacked-outlined-72x72-grey-9.svg\" width=\"72\" height=\"72\" alt><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"perf-cv-auto c-most-viewed\">\n<h2 class=\"c-most-viewed__title qa-section-title\">Most read<\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-most-viewed__list\">\n<div class=\"c-most-viewed__item\"><span class=\"c-most-viewed__item__number\">1<\/span><\/p>\n<article id=\"abe-2888278-pos1-mostViewed\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-3 m-modeDesktop-3 m-modeXL-3 the-media-object--has-video the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2888278\" data-cid=\"9732334\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Richest countries in 2026: France and Germany fail to make the top 10<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-most-viewed__item\"><span class=\"c-most-viewed__item__number\">2<\/span><\/p>\n<article id=\"abe-2888675-pos2-mostViewed\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-3 m-modeDesktop-3 m-modeXL-3 the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2888675\" data-cid=\"9734567\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Pentagon considers suspending Spain from NATO, leaked email suggests<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-most-viewed__item\"><span class=\"c-most-viewed__item__number\">3<\/span><\/p>\n<article id=\"abe-2888440-pos3-mostViewed\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-3 m-modeDesktop-3 m-modeXL-3 the-media-object--has-video the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2888440\" data-cid=\"9733211\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Russian soldiers must be banned from Schengen \u2018for life\u2019, Estonia says<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-most-viewed__item\"><span class=\"c-most-viewed__item__number\">4<\/span><\/p>\n<article id=\"abe-2888357-pos4-mostViewed\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-3 m-modeDesktop-3 m-modeXL-3 the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2888357\" data-cid=\"9732652\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    EV sales spike nearly 50% in March amid Iran war energy shortage fears<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-most-viewed__item\"><span class=\"c-most-viewed__item__number\">5<\/span><\/p>\n<article id=\"abe-2888517-pos5-mostViewed\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-3 m-modeDesktop-3 m-modeXL-3 the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2888517\" data-cid=\"9733759\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Ukraine doesn&#8217;t need symbolic EU membership, Zelenskyy says<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"perf-cv-auto c-ad-wrapper o-article-newsy__aside__content-3\" data-ad-name=\"adzone-halfpage\">\n<div class=\"c-ad c-ad-halfpage u-show-for-desktop\">\n<div class=\"c-ad__placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"c-ad__placeholder__logo\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/logos\/logo-euronews-stacked-outlined-72x72-grey-9.svg\" width=\"72\" height=\"72\" alt><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-ad u-show-for-mobile-only\">\n<div class=\"c-ad__placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"c-ad__placeholder__logo\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/logos\/logo-euronews-stacked-outlined-72x72-grey-9.svg\" width=\"72\" height=\"72\" alt><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2888705-pos2-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--has-video the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2888705\" data-cid=\"9734694\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2888705-label-pos2-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/46\/94\/320x180_cmsv2_64e7f215-4164-5c08-a032-55bb266684f8-9734694.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"High Representative Kaja Kallas spoke with Euronews in Cyprus.\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Orb\u00e1n-style vetoes undermine EU democracy, Kallas tells Euronews<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2888720-pos3-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2888720\" data-cid=\"9734888\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2888720-label-pos3-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/48\/88\/320x180_cmsv2_134ebc4b-0fa4-5e20-95fa-8d2389bf34ad-9734888.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"High Representative Kaja Kallas.\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    EU mutual assistance clause doesn&#8217;t contradict NATO, says Kallas<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2888458-pos4-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--has-video the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2888458\" data-cid=\"9733336\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2888458-label-pos4-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/33\/36\/320x180_cmsv2_d4fbe9b7-4cdf-5571-9924-66022c10542d-9733336.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Former President of the European Council, Charles Michel\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Michel: European Council should &#8216;think carefully&#8217; if ending unanimity<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2888752-pos5-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2888752\" data-cid=\"9735053\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2888752-label-pos5-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/50\/53\/320x180_cmsv2_56149b50-adaa-54eb-b65d-de446aa1b3bc-9735053.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth speaks to members of the media during a press briefing at the Pentagon, 16 April, 2026 \" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Hegseth warns Iran to make &#8216;wise deal&#8217; ahead of possible talks<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2888765-pos6-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2888765\" data-cid=\"9735147\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2888765-label-pos6-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/51\/47\/320x180_cmsv2_adc372c8-88d2-5fc9-bb8e-3bb6db483230-9735147.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"People are silhouetted against a video screen during the launch of the FIFA World Cup trophy tour in Vancouver, 10 April, 2026\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Tickets to World Cup final in US appear on resale site for \u20ac1.9m each<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2888278-pos1-mostViewed\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-3 m-modeDesktop-3 m-modeXL-3 the-media-object--has-video the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2888278\" data-cid=\"9732334\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Richest countries in 2026: France and Germany fail to make the top 10<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2888675-pos2-mostViewed\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-3 m-modeDesktop-3 m-modeXL-3 the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2888675\" data-cid=\"9734567\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Pentagon considers suspending Spain from NATO, leaked email suggests<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2888440-pos3-mostViewed\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-3 m-modeDesktop-3 m-modeXL-3 the-media-object--has-video the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2888440\" data-cid=\"9733211\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Russian soldiers must be banned from Schengen \u2018for life\u2019, Estonia says<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2888357-pos4-mostViewed\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-3 m-modeDesktop-3 m-modeXL-3 the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2888357\" data-cid=\"9732652\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    EV sales spike nearly 50% in March amid Iran war energy shortage fears<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2888517-pos5-mostViewed\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-3 m-modeDesktop-3 m-modeXL-3 the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2888517\" data-cid=\"9733759\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Ukraine doesn&#8217;t need symbolic EU membership, Zelenskyy says<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div class=\"articleBody\" data-key=\"articleBody\">Cyprus, long seen as a stable country, is now emerging as a strategic frontline \u2014 caught between regional tensions, global powers and its own unresolved north-south division.The British sovereign base areas of Akrotiri and Dhekelia cover around 3% of the Republic of Cyprus, in the south of the island. They go well beyond the perimeter of the bases, overlapping on almost 60% of the municipality of Kourion, home to 40,000 people.\u00a0In the village of Akrotiri, located just outside the base, residents are used to the constant presence of jets and patrols and around a third of the population works on the base.When the drone struck, confusion followed.\u201cThere were sirens, but no clear instructions,\u201d said deputy mayor of Akrotiri Giorgos Kostantinou. The evacuation order came only the next day. Around 1,000 people were temporarily displaced, relying on relatives, hotels and a nearby monastery.The incident exposed a legal grey zone: Cypriot authorities have no jurisdiction over the British sovereign base areas, limiting their ability to act in emergencies.Strategic asset or growing threat?The bases have long been a sensitive issue in Cyprus. Retained by the UK after the island\u2019s independence in 1960, they are seen by some as a colonial legacy.The right-wing Cypriot government has raised questions about the future of the bases after the drone strike, with the issue remaining a long-standing source of political friction.\u201cFor many people, the base is becoming a threat,\u201d said Pantelis Georgiou, mayor of the Kourion municipality. \u201cWe need clarity on who is responsible, especially for civil protection.\u201d\u00a0Cyprus, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the Council of the\u00a0 European Union, is not a NATO member and relies on its European allies and the UK for its defence.Following the attack, several European countries deployed military assets to the region, including Greece, while the UK allowed the US to use its bases for &#8220;defensive operations&#8221;.Tourism caught in the crossfireDespite security concerns, authorities are keen to project calm. Tourism \u2014 which accounts for about 12% of Cyprus\u2019s GDP \u2014 remains a priority.Industry representatives have downplayed the incident, but the impact was immediate. Hotel bookings dropped by nearly 40% in March, just as the season was beginning.Officials insist the long-term impact will depend on how the conflict evolves.The Middle East crisis is also reverberating through Cyprus\u2019 lasting political divide.The island has been split since 1974 between the internationally recognised Republic of Cyprus and the self-declared north Cyprus, recognised only by Turkey.Military posturing on both sides has intensified, with Turkey reinforcing its presence in the north after European deployments in the south.Analysts warn that the Middle East conflict could deepen divisions and further delay reunification efforts.For now, daily life continues much as before. But beneath the surface, the war is reshaping the island \u2014 politically, economically and socially.Cyprus remains physically distant from the frontlines, yet increasingly exposed to their consequences. The question is no longer whether the conflict affects the island, but how far those effects will go.<\/div>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.euronews.com\/my-europe\/2026\/04\/24\/cyprus-how-the-middle-east-war-is-shaping-europes-closest-frontier-to-the-conflict&#8221;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/71\/55\/87\/1200x675_cmsv2_1902a466-211e-59c6-8f2f-670a0a97e528-9715587.jpg&#8221;] No Comment Prince Harry visits Kyiv to back Ukraine and spotlight mine clearance Culture news Drake\u2019s ice sculpture stunt explained &#8211; and why it got shut down Business Why investing in Caspian transit routes is crucial for energy security Culture news War stories of displaced Ukrainian Refugees feature in Lithuanian exhibition in [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[90],"tags":[226,36],"class_list":["post-1900556","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-international","tag-crawlmanager","tag-euronews-com"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1900556","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1900556"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1900556\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1900556"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1900556"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1900556"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}