Dialogos

Fidan: 'Very Limited Risk' to Cyprus

Published March 3, 2026, 17:03
Fidan: 'Very Limited Risk' to Cyprus

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated that the risk to Cyprus from potential targeting by Iran is “very limited.” Speaking to Turkish journalists in Ankara, he estimated that the risk is low in both the Turkish-controlled north and the internationally recognized south of Cyprus, adding that there is no threat to civilian infrastructure. Fidan estimated that the Israeli Prime Minister is seeking the complete neutralization of the Iranian “threat,” with the targeting shifting from Iran’s military capabilities to the regime itself. He argued that Ankara attempted to prevent the war with “creative proposals” and that it even “delayed” its start. Referring to possible scenarios, Fidan estimated that the minimum is the weakening of Iran’s military capabilities, while the maximum is a regime change, which would require a broader and more prolonged military operation. He noted that Iran is trying to increase the cost through strikes on energy targets in the Gulf. Fidan assured that Turkey protects itself and has the will and ability to do so, even if attacks turn against it. He warned that direct targeting of US bases by Iran in Arab countries increases the risk of a wider regional crisis.