Calls to permanently lift the U.S. arms embargo on Cyprus

Ted Deutch, CEO of the American Jewish Committee, and Endy Zemenides, executive director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council, have published an article in Kathimerini calling on the United States to permanently lift its arms embargo on Cyprus. The authors argue that Cyprus has become a vital strategic partner for the U.S., serving as a hub for regional stability, energy cooperation, and humanitarian missions. They highlight the island's proximity to Israel, located approximately 235 miles away, as a key factor in its strategic importance. The officials cited security concerns related to Iran and its proxies, specifically noting threats made in 2024 by former Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. Nasrallah had warned that Cyprus could be targeted if it allowed the use of its territory for military operations against Lebanon. The authors contend that these threats are no longer hypothetical, citing alleged Iranian activity near British military facilities on the island. They assert that the U.S. must remove restrictions to strengthen Cyprus against these regional challenges.