Israel's sending of a military contingent to Cyprus increases tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Medianews.az reports that Israel, Greece, and the Republic of Cyprus are creating a military unit called the Joint Operational Rapid Response Force in the Eastern Mediterranean consisting of 2,500 personnel. According to the plan, 1,000 personnel in this unit will be made up of Israeli soldiers. Another 1,000 will be formed from Greek personnel, and 500 from Cypriot soldiers.
At the time this plan has come into effect, information is also spreading about increased cases of Israeli citizens buying land plots in Cyprus.
Commenting on the issue, Turkish professor Mehmet Hasgüler stated that Western countries Europeanized Cyprus by making Greek Cyprus a member of the European Union: "Now, Israel's influence is increasing, and Cyprus is beginning to be ‘Israelized’."
Hasgüler noted that the leadership of Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Republic of Cyprus has significantly strengthened cooperation in defense and intelligence in recent years. Greece also actively participates in this process.
Retired Turkish admiral Cihat Yaycı said that Cyprus's rapprochement with Israel poses a risk to Turkey's national security. According to him, the island is effectively turning into a military foothold against Turkey.
According to information, Israeli citizens are purchasing land en masse in Cyprus, and settlements primarily inhabited by Israelis are being formed in some districts. Experts emphasize that this could cause more serious problems in the future.