Von der Leyen expresses EU solidarity with Cyprus amid Middle East conflict

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, speaking before the European Parliament, emphasised Brussels’ solidarity with Cyprus in light of the ongoing war in the Middle East.

She stated that the security of Cyprus is directly linked to the security of Europe as a whole, adding that the EU’s top priority is protecting its citizens and preparing for potential consequences of the conflict, including energy-related risks, Caliber.Az reports via Cypriot media.

On February 28, 2026, the US and Israel launched large-scale airstrikes on Iran, killing senior IRGC and government officials and hitting nearly 20 cities, including civilian sites. Iran responded the same day and has continued daily/near-daily waves of ballistic missiles and drones.

Iran explicitly targeted US military facilities hosted in the Gulf states and Jordan. Most incoming projectiles have been intercepted, but there have been civilian casualties, infrastructure damage, fires, and debris impacts. Iran has also struck vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.

The reported attack on the Royal Air Force (RAF) base in Akrotiri in Cyprus had prompted direct concerns about European security.  

In response, several EU member states boosted military support for Cyprus, with France deploying warships and air defence systems, and Greece contributing jets and patrol vessels, as part of a broader attempt to protect EU territory and assert European security autonomy.  

European leaders have engaged in direct diplomatic outreach to Middle East nations, holding video conferences and condemning attacks, while acknowledging the impact of the conflict on regional stability and energy markets.

By Khagan Isayev