Turkey strengthens military presence in Northern Cyprus
Turkey has deployed six F-16 fighter jets and various air defense systems to the occupied northern part of Cyprus, including the Hisar missile system, Korkut, and the Sahin anti-drone system. Turkish officials state these measures are intended to maintain stability and enhance deterrence following regional tensions between Iran, Israel, and the United States. Additionally, Turkey is constructing maritime traffic surveillance stations in areas such as Karpasia, Agios Theodoros, and Livera, with a central control hub planned for Famagusta. These installations are designed to integrate radar data for 24-hour monitoring of the Eastern Mediterranean. The government of the Republic of Cyprus has expressed opposition to these moves, characterizing them as a violation of sovereignty and noting that Turkey's actions differ from the EU-backed defensive cooperation requested by Nicosia. Reports indicate that over 40,000 Turkish troops remain stationed in the region.