Following the continuous Iranian attacks on Israel, fear of missile strikes is growing on the Mediterranean island of Cyprus, the closest European Union member state to the conflict zone in the Middle East.
Cypriot authorities have launched the warning application SafeCY, which uses mobile phone location to help citizens find the nearest bomb shelter in case of need. The app also contains useful instructions and information for protection during attacks. According to the Ministry of Interior, Cyprus has approximately 2,200 bomb shelters ready for use.
Strategic Concerns and Precautionary Measures
The situation has worsened due to the presence of two British military bases on the island, which could be potential targets in the conflict. The main Akrotiri base near Limassol and the military airport are key strategic points for operations in the Middle East.
Furthermore, some Israeli aircraft have been moved to Cypriot airports for security reasons, while strict security measures are in effect around the civilian airports of Larnaca and Paphos. Cyprus, located just 250 kilometers from Israel, offers a safe haven in a tense region where the consequences of the conflict are keenly felt.
