Cypriot MEP meets with Iranian ambassador to discuss regional drone incident

Cypriot MEP Phidias Panayiotou met with the Iranian ambassador to Cyprus on April 8, 2026. The meeting covered several topics, including the Cyprus issue, relations with Turkey, and the ceasefire between Iran and the United States. During the conversation, the Iranian ambassador alleged that Israel was responsible for a recent drone attack in the vicinity of the Akrotiri base in Cyprus. The ambassador claimed that Israel seeks to involve Europe in the ongoing regional conflict. Panayiotou stated that he was relaying the ambassador's perspective without confirming the accuracy of the accusation. He emphasized the necessity of diplomatic communication with all parties, even when ideological differences exist. The MEP acknowledged disagreement with aspects of the Iranian regime but maintained that dialogue remains a fundamental tool for diplomatic engagement.