Hezbollah's threat to strike Cyprus was a rather unexpected development - and not a little alarming! However, it also gave me a good chance to examine a topic that's not only very close to home but has fascinated me for a long time: the relationship between Cyprus, the Middle East, and Europe. While we think of the EU frontline states in terms of the Ukraine-Russia war, Cyprus provides a vital link between the European Union and another conflict zone. But while the focus has been on how Cyprus can provide humanitarian aid to the region, Hezbollah's threats have indicated how it may, in fact, face a threat if a war does emerge between Israel and Hezbollah. So, what do you think? Was Nasrallah's threat aimed at Cyprus or Britain? Would Hezbollah ever attack Cyprus? What would the EU do about it? And should Cyprus perhaps look for more balance in its regional relations? As always, I look forward to your thoughts and comments below.
@@geriatricprogrammer4364 there was an agreement that Britain would pay rent to the Cyprus government for the use of the bases on Cypriot soil, but I believe they're still waiting for the first payment 🤨
Thanks so much, Scott. It was certainly a rather alarming development! But I'm quietly hopeful it won't come to that. However, unfortunately, the threat of war in neighbouring Lebanon is very real. This could put very significant strains on the island.
It's not our cypriot policy, it's your British policy enforced by the British bases that's the problem. The UK government desides to assist Israel with recognises flights, now ordinary Cypriots are under threat.
Important to note that the 2 Sovereign Base areas are not part of Cyprus. Under the 1960 Independence Agreement they were ceded to the UK. As such they have a status similar to Gibraltar or the Falkland Islands. Any attack on them would be seen as an attack on the UK and therefore an attack on NATO.
Why don't the immigrants flow into the north of the island which is Turkish controlled and Muslim but they seem to have a problem with moving to their own kind
Akrotiri Military Base in Cyprus has always been involved in all Middle Eastern wars and it is involved in the current war in Gaza too. I used to work there, and I know. Whenever a war starts in the region the air activity in Akrotiri multiples by 10-fold. Two weeks ago, I was at Ladies Mile Beach on the periphery of Akrotiri and the air activity was excessively busy just like the 1967, 1973, and 2006 Middle Eastern wars. In 2006 Akrotiri was used to bomb Lebanon. In 1967 & 1973 the targets were Egypt and Syria. Now once again if a war starts the target will be Lebanon
@@tekinmoustafa8141 Tekinmoustafa8141, I have been following Professor James Ker-Lindsay for a very long time … Professor James Ker-Lindsay is a decent/honest man, and his analysis of events worldwide is in-depth, precious and often objective and unbiased. However, whenever he tries to analyse the Cyprus issue his objectivity and unbiased attitude do not apply. He is pro-Greek. I heard that he has some personal links to Cyprus and all I can think is that this link prevents him from being objective unbiased and pro-Greek on the issue of Cyprus. Many times, I stated on his website that there is no such thing as a Cypriot Nation. There are Greeks, Turks, Armenians, Maronites and Gypsies (please see the 1960 Cyprus Constitution) living in the Island of Cyprus. But to no avail Professor James Ker-Lindsay still argues that there is a ‘Cypriot Nation’ there is a ‘Cypriot Identity’ that one day this ‘Nation’ this ‘Identity’ will re-unite. This is a completely false idea and a completely false expectation. Tekinmoustafa8141, you say he does not and will not respond to our texts That may be so but we still write to Professor James Ker-Lindsay with what we believe to be the truth. Mehmet Salih Bayramoǧlu
Turkey invaded cyprus for 2 reasons 1. Greek Cypriots massacred turkish Cypriots. You can search what EOKA is or what bloody Christmas is. 2. Cyprus wanted to unite with Greece. This was against the agreement between the aforementioned countries. Why nobody stopped Turkey from invading Island is because we were a guarantor country as the video mentioned and it was our right to take an action if our rights were abused
@@mertaslankilic8967 Take action doesn’t mean to intervene and conquer a new area forever. It’s more a pretext to show how Turkish you are. You always want whatever doesn’t belong to you. This is called greediness and is part of being who you are. History will judge you like it did with ancient empires. No stone will remain on a stone forever !
Many reasons. Turkish Cypriots siding with the Brits when cypriots fought for independence. Political party by turkish cypriots called "Cyprus is turkish"(1950s) Various "incidents" by MIT A minority(18%)asking to split the island. Both sides made mistakes. Turkey did a land grab,because 1974 was not a war between turkish and greek cypriots,but between greek cypriots.As a guarantor they had no reason for the 2nd invasion,or their one sided terms. And think now,IF a majority in Turkey (Kurds lets say)wanted to split the country,what would be the result. Both sides fault,but Turks should stop playing the innocence card.Many relocated mass graves of civilians,propaganda,and ppl killed even after the war state otherwise. Also the MASSIVE demographics change were Turkish Cypriots became a minority in their own country,were even elections are affected by them. Sad reality is that this will never be resolved because noone learned from their mistakes
Cyprus is blessed and cursed at the same time by its geography. So close to so many tense interactions by bigger actors, yet still the fact that it's an island allows it to be removed just enough from them (not counting the frozen conflict it still finds itself in with Turkey occupying its north) to have relative safety and play a mediating role. A precarious balancing act for Cypriot policymakers that they will hopefully be able to continue for the sake of their own security.
Turkey liberated the north otherwise they would have had the same destiny as Gaza, Europe turned a blind eye to the massacre going on perpetrated by EOKA. We shall never forget.
You are absolutely right. It is an incredibly tricky spot to be in. I think Cypriot policymakers have tended to do a very good job on that score. However, as I suggested, I wonder if their relations with Israel have perhaps been too close for the country's own good in recent years.
@@billybobjohn8955 Crazy statement and the comparison to Gaza holds no ground at all, Turkey and Greece both tried to enlarge their territory on Cyprus by cost of the local population. Turkey is just as imperialist as Israël is, but just like Russia they always see themselves as the victim so they'd never admit that.
Don’t worry. Easy to do! :-) It really is a fascinating place with so much history. It’s such an interesting place to study, and a wonderful place to live.
There is no history of northern or southern cyprus. Greek and turkish cypriots existed yogether for hundreds of years. Only in recent tine has thrre been duvisuon, because of outside countries@@shafsteryellow
Aside another comment made, I am grateful for your work professor. As a Cypriot, I always value and appreciate your perspective. Not only for showcasing high academic quality and expertise, but for making sure that as viewers we a) understand the complexity and versatility of some issues, but more importantly b) for providing a good basis and necessary context, which viewers many times require but not always granted. That's, for me at least, very important and more so the way is done. I believe you do provide that and done so, without having us feeling overwhelmed by what's presented or feeling unable to further dive on briefly presented issues, as from my experience I can always check your material as a starting reference. In my view, at a time of overflow of information/disinformation and polarisation, doing so helps build a mindset that fosters a culture of not only knowing what is happening and analysing it through our own beliefs, but rather building a better understanding, combining the different info and perspectives that help complete such complex puzzles. 🌍🇨🇾🙏🏻
Hello Panagiotis, thank you so much for the incredibly kind comment. I really and truly appreciate it. Sadly, YT (and other social media) have become so toxic and are so often filled with abuse these days that it is really nice to hear such a positive message. It makes a huge difference. I know many don’t agree with my views on some subjects. But I make these videos in good faith and in the hope that they will provoke a good discussion. Όπως ίσως έχετε δει σε άλλο μήνυμα, μένω ξανά στην Κύπρο. Μετά από πολλά χρόνια στη Βρετανία, επέστρεψα το περασμένο καλοκαίρι. (Είναι τόσο ωραίο που επιστρέφω.) Ίσως έχουμε την ευκαιρία να συναντηθούμε κάποια στιγμή. Μέχρι τότε, σας ευχαριστώ πολύ για άλλη μια φορά. 🙏🏻🙂
The Cypriots are caught between a rock and a hard place. If they tell the US & British to get lost, like they did in 1973, they could suffer the consequences. If they go ahead with providing the US and British with air bases and thereby supporting Israel in any future conflict with Hezbollah, they also could face the consequences.
what? like they did in 1973? where you read or see that? for what that big lies,fallacy. docoument show if or not? all about NATO Grecee Gov docoument show that you are out, open any book i.e Papachellas, Droysiotis, G Kliredes, Kranidiotis, A Papandreou,
Thanks so much. Indeed! But this is obviously a little too close to home for comfort - quite literally, as I live about a close to Lebanon as one can be on the island. But overall Cyprus is a wonderfully interesting place to be.
War aside, Cyprus is a super interesting place. I'd recommend staying in Nicosia to hear both the Greek and Turkish Cypriot's side of the story and experience their culture.
Cyprus, in my opinion, should keep its neutrality status. Conducting military exercises in its territory with Israeli navy and air force is not neutral.
@@micheypatsaIf a wider war happens in the middle east, Turkey could easily use Cyprus' support of Israel as an excuse to finish the invasion. Turkey has 40k troops on the border. I don't think they will do it, but it is something to think about.
I'm a retired Brit living in Cyprus so when I first heard these threats they come across as very concerning . Although when I gave it some thought I was convinced Nazrallah was referring to the British bases which have been used in the past for Israels security . We've got enough on our plate with Turkiye so the last thing we want is another war front to open up . The Cyprus economy is very dependent on tourism especially in the summer months so any kind of conflict is strictly a no go area for the Cyprus government . However being a small country it doesn't have much say in what the bigger countries plans are and it may be the case that the British base in Akrotiri is used again in either supplying Israel or even bombing Israels enemy's . Cyprus really is in the hands of the EU and Britain and far as this issue is concerned so the quicker we get peace in Gaza and the Lebanon Israel border the better for all .
Akrotiri Military Base in Cyprus has always been involved in all Middle Eastern wars and it is involved in the current war in Gaza too. I used to work there, and I know. Whenever a war starts in the region the air activity in Akrotiri multiples by 10-fold. Two weeks ago, I was at Ladies Mile Beach on the periphery of Akrotiri and the air activity was excessively busy just like the 1967, 1973, and 2006 Middle Eastern wars. In 2006 Akrotiri was used to bomb Lebanon. In 1967 & 1973 the targets were Egypt and Syria. Now once again if a war starts the target will be Lebanon
@@msbayramoglu1 A disgrace really, when Britain is obligated to safeguard the island's territorial integrity under the treaty of independence which granted them the bases - that Britain stood by when Turkey invaded, yet uses the bases to engage elsewhere.
@@nickchristoforou7850 invasion of the island of Cyprus took place on 15 July 1974 by Greek Junta in Athens 5 days later Turkey reacted by partitioning the island… as per the constitution Britain should have allowed Turkey to land troops through its military bases but she didn’t so Turkey done it alone. Turkish Cypriots from Paphos Limassol and Larnaca and all the surrounding villages were made prisoners by the Greek National Guard so we had no option but to flee to the north obviously Greeks had no option but to move the south at least in Cyprus we had somewhere to go unlike the Palestinians
Great video. I live in Paphos but travel around the island regularly. My personal opinion and one that the majority of my Cypriot friends share is that Cyprus should stay as non aligned and as neutral as possible. But Sticking to humanitarian efforts. As a British citizen it to say the least sickens me how the Uk government is currently using the bases on this beautiful island in support of Israel, supplying arms and intelligence as well as logistically for the USA and Israel. It certainly isn’t for the good of the UK or its people let alone Cyprus. The past couple of years with Cyprus becoming closer to Israel I’ve found bizarre due to the fact Cypriots tend to be very sympathetic to the Palestinians who are also occupied.
Thanks so much Ethan. I really appreciate it. I also live here now. (I lived here before for many years. My family has in fact been on the island for 35 years.) You are right. There has been a real change in Cyprus’s foreign policy towards Israel. I always remembered people as being very pro-Palestinian. But I do think things have changed a lot over the last decade.
@@JamesKerLindsay come on guys its not so difficult to understand Cyprus’ foreign policy. Cyprus is doing whatever its possible to guarantee that somebody will help Greek Cypriots when Turkey invade again. we support Israel because only Israel has interest for the GC to survive. All other eu members, including england dont care and will not fight for us.
Your videos are so precise they give history, Geography, demography and current situation. The context building is amazing. Although I request a longer video with more in depth analysis. Like 20-25 mins video once in a while would be great!
Thanks so much. I really and truly appreciate the kind words. It means a lot. As tempting as it is, I don’t think I could. The problem is that I do a video each week. Writing a 4000 word script is an even greater undertaking than the 2000 words I do at the moment. And doubling the editing time would be just too much. It’s already a huge commitment every week. Sadly, with YT viewing figures down (and with it the limited ad revenue I and other creators used to get to help pay for the videos) and the spread of cheap poor quality AI content many creators are already finding it tough going. To be honest, and added to the growing abuse I’m getting in the comments section these days, I’m even starting to have serious second thoughts about continuing!
@@JamesKerLindsay whoa, that would be a shame Professor. I think it's amazing that we have direct access to the thoughts of real experts such as yourself these days. But I agree about the YT platform. Actually, I tend to just watch my favorite channels or do specific searches now - too many adds and so much low value stuff. Hope you find a way to keep enjoying making your valuable content.
@JamesKerLindsay I am truly sorry that you have to suffer all this after so much hard work. The people in general are ungrateful they learn from you yet criticise you because you are objective and do not cater to their biases. Please keep up the good work Professor. You are contributing to learnings of many. Hope someday you get all the respect you rightly deserve.
I didn't know anything about this topic before watching this video. But when I googled it, I found that according to both Haaertz and DeclassifiedUK, the British bases in Cyprus are being used by the UK and US to supply weapons to Israel. There was even an article in The Guardian that discussed such allegations. Also according to The Guardian article, the 2 bases are used by the UK and the US to attack the Houthis in Yemen
@@JamesKerLindsay Thank you, I really enjoyed every minute there. Everything from the weather, people and history met or exceeded expectations. You are lucky to live in such a beautiful country.
@@JamesKerLindsay I spent six weeks there last year. I’m an open water swimmer. Some of the loveliest beaches and bluest and clear water I’ve ever seen. And I’ve lived in Hawaii, Florida, and The Virgin Islands. Now, in Sicily. I would like to return to swim again. Stay safe. Sadly my middle name, Israel, is on my passport. I’m not even Jewish….so not sure how that will go over in the future.
Surprised that in the brief history bit of the video, you didn’t over the Condominium of Cyprus; when the Byzantines and Arabs both held joint rule over the island for 300 years and it was strangely peaceful. This marks the current divide between the island as not the first time the island had been contested by two powers.
WHERE did you READ your fantasies?? The Arabs CONQUERED Cyprus and WE GREEK BYZANTINES LIBERATED it! And WE GREEK BYZANTINES kept it UNTIL Richard the Lionheart CONQUERED it during the Third Crusade! BUT the POPULATION was always GREEK, GREEK speaking, GREEK ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN!!
I wonder what really the EU plans to do in case Iran attacks Cyprus!? Sounds like a bold empty statement.. Cyprus is geographically vulnerable with lots of domestic issues.. Thanks for wise analyses!
This is what my Masters thesis covered. Cyprus and it's history within the Middle East conflict, a fascinating area that has not been explored enough. I think the British bases provide some form of protection but also a risk. Many Cypriots are oblivious to their neighbourhood, have never visited neighbouring countries and truly don't understand the risk of our geo-political position. This is why the Hezbollah threat was so shocking for them.
Thanks, Stephan. You’re absolutely right. It really hasn’t been explored enough. I’ve always found it strange that most people here don’t really know the Middle East, and yet the island is really an integral part of the region in so many interesting ways.
When Israel attacked the Turkish aid boat, why didn't Turkey, a NATO member, invoke Article 5? Although I can't see the US going against Israel no matter what Israel does.
Powerful countries can survive close relationships with others that turn out to be problematic but for such a small country as Cyprus to hitch its wagon to a state predictably becoming an international pariah is foolish in the extreme, especially when Israel is seemingly determined to pick fights in the region.
Maybe Cyprus should do something about all the Arms getting shipped to Israel through it ? Oh that's right Cyprus has always been a base of Western colonialism right back to the Crusade days
@@andrigeogiou8420 it has his own goverment parliment police and army yeah turkish cyprus is very real and sooner or later nations going to recognize it
@andreasneophytou8256 imho, it seems that you are the one who can not see the reality of the situation in Cyprus. Almost 40% of the island is its own independent state. Since Greek Cypriots do not seem to be willing...or even capable...of coming to any form of a sharing agreement with the Turkish cypriots sooner or later, many countries will begin to recognise this reality aswell.
Cyprus has suffered enough in the hands of so many that took the island over the years. The government of Cyprus should negotiate and agree only that they can only use Cyprus if they force the Turks out . We saw Turkeys true colours lately and in the past, that they can't be trusted.
I think you have failed to note Turkeys role in this development as it is disturbed by Cyprus gaining importance for EU and Nato. Thus it is logical to think that Hizbollah threats come after Turkeys advice and not Irans.
Ilk bakista bu soyledigin mantikli gibi duruyor ancak hizbullah tumuyle iran kontrolunde şii bir orgut.sunni Turkiyenin etkisinde kalmasina Iran izin vermez.Ayni zamanda Kuzek Kibris Turk Cumhuriyetine de gelme ihtimali olan saldiri Turkiyenin cikarlariyla ne kadar ortusuyor bilmiyorum
Thanks. This may well be the case. But I don’t think we have any direct evidence for this. The problem with any video is that there are all sorts of strands that can be included. The art is trying to tell the story clearly without introducing too many confusing elements for others who may be new to the topic. For the moment, the clear line of causation lies with the Cyprus-Israel military cooperation. I thought it best to focus on that. That said, Turkey does seem to be making the most of the situation: www.al-monitor.com/originals/2024/06/after-hezbollah-turkeys-fidan-warns-cyprus-stay-away-israels-wars
Greek Cypriots have a habit of blaming others for their own mistakes and mishaps. Blaming Turkey for Hezbollah threat is a repeat of this process by Greek Cypriots. Greek Cypriots have secretly been helping the Zionist regime in logistics and airspace etc. Now that Hezbollah warned the Greek Cypriots they use the obvious tactic blame Turkey 🇹🇷!
@@JamesKerLindsay it is more likely here is just another greek trying to push an anti-Turkey propaganda. maybe it is time to note how Turk obsession is a big part of modern Greek identity and this obsession disrupting Greeks' touch with geopolitical actuality in your future Greece-related videos.
You are wrong . In the turkish parliament , there are 3 seats that are taken by members of the turkish Hezbollah , it is not only in Lebanon , and they have an excellent relationship with the turkish president . This threat was a direct order from Turkey , they have been doing this for years and is part of their toxic foreign policy . Turkey is trying to control the region of the Middle East up to the center of Africa , and this is evident from the fact that they now have military bases there . I would advise you to talk with greek geostragitical professors who will analyze for you in depth the situation here , it seems you are missing basic understanding of what is really going on .
I was wondering when the next video about Cyprus would drop. It is basically a tradition by now to expect at least one per year - although this one doesn't deal with the Cyprus Issue, to my great sorrow. Still, there was much new stuff to learn about Cyprus' foreign policy. Also, pretty unrelated but I keep forgetting that the Non-Aligned Movement still exists. My bad, NAM.
You can't really blame me. If there is one issue that I have worked on, it's Cyprus. And one a year is still only 2%. Frankly, you could be getting a lot more of them! :-)
The most Important problem for Cyprus from its relations with Israel is that it proves she is not consistant with her proclamations. Cyprus, states that she condemns any violation of international law and millitary occupations yet she supports a state that not only ilegally ocupies land but is also allaged to comit genocide. This situation is, in my opinion a Waterlloo for Cypriot and Greek foreign policy and they will pay it in the future.
It would greatly helped if the international community condemned Turkey for its own violations in Cyprus: invasion, occupation, settling Anatolian Turks and altering the island's demographic. If only UN and International community demanded the removal of settlers in Cyprus as it does for the West Bank
You will pay a heavy price again. You have paid it before, since your name is Alexander which means a Greek Baptized one of your Ancestors in the Sea of Hellenic islands! 👌🏻
@@VladTevez I refer to something specific that I think is immoral from the Cypriot side. I do not defend Turkish policies which are also violating international law and by the way condemned by the UN. Not everything is black and white nor is there a comparison between crimes.
@@Alexander_1999_ Cyprus is communicating with both Israel and Palestine, Cyprus has recognized Palestine decades ago and the Palestinian government expressed its gratitude to Cyprus for its humanitarian role
@@artman12 We are roughly 170 km -220 km away not far at all, i am ready . We have Jesus in our hearts we are the only Christian country in the area, we are not scared we are all soldiers here, we live in the safest country in Europe, we live a lovly Island life and we are happy, if islam wants to try us they can, we do not stand a alone anymore. We will smile in the face of the devils islam
The greek administration is south Cyprus makes a huge mistake with to make south Cyprus to an israeli base. If you continue this politics, greek cypriots will be in the middle of middle eastern conflicts.
Blimey! It was only last night. Give me some time! As it happens, I have a video planned on one important issue that Labour will have to tackle fairly soon.
I once saw a bombed car in Cyprus stuck in traffic in Cyprus in the 80s. Think it was Mossad against a Palestinian group or a Palestinian group. Seem to remember it exploded about 10 minutes earlier. I'm googling it now. Wasnt the one that killed 3 PLO member's in February 1988 as it was Summer.
The most Eastern land in EU is not Cyrpus, but Finland. See: The easternmost point of Finland and of the continental part of the European Union is located on an island in Lake Virmajärvi, which is found in Hattuvaara, a village in the municipality of Ilomantsi.
Eastern is not a geographical term but a political one. It has been since the 19th century and the western interests into the riches of the middle east and ottoman empire.
Read the Zurich agreement again. Where does it say that the guarantor powers have or ever had the right to intervene militarily? In English it says that the guarantors reserve the right “to take action”. It doesn’t say military action because that would have been contrary to international law i.e. the UN Charter which clearly forbids not only military action but even the threat of military action against any member state. The only way to take military action is in self defence or when authorised with a UN Security Council Resolution. Under a specific Chapter of the Charter. Cyprus never attacked Turkey and Turkey never obtained a UN Security Council Resolution to invade the UN member State, the Republic of Cyprus. Therefore Turkeys invasion and continued occupation of territory of the RoC for 50 years this year, was and continues to be illegal. Of course Turkey is a member of NATO since 1952 and it’s second second largest army. Therefore, unlike Russia, Turkey never faced any sanctions against it, despite occupying illegally part of Cyprus and despite being the biggest violator of human rights according to the ECHR for the period 1959 to 2021. That’s why no Cypriots no matter what they say in public, can ever trust 100% the West because of the double standards they selectively apply to suit their own interests.
Sizce Turkiye Kibris adasina neden askeri harekat duzenledi.bu harekat sonrasi ambargoya magruz kalmayi goze almasina sebep olacak olan neydi? Ozellikle avrupalilarin bu konuya bakisi hep askeri harekat basladiktan sonrasiyla alakali.oncesinde neler oldugu Turkiyenin askeri harekatinin sebeplerini anlamaya calismak sorunu daha saglikli algilamanin yolu olabilir
I think YT lost my reply. The understanding was always that it included military action. I don’t think this has ever been seriously contested, especially as U.K., Greece and Turkey had military forces on the island. It would be odd to have troops on the island to protect their communities, but no right to back that up if needed. As for 1974, the general view is that the first wave was permitted. After all, let’s not forget that Greece was in the process of trying to annexe the island following a military coup. But I have always argued that once the coup had been defeated, the second wave was illegal.
@@JamesKerLindsay International law is above any regional agreement. There was a legal opinion on the issue prior to Cyprus becoming a member of the UN by Hans Kelsen. It will be worth reading. The contingents on the Island were there as part of the treaty of Alliance for the defence of the island in the context of the Cold War not for the protection of any community. Which makes me wonder? Why the three guarantors all NATO members did not allow Cyprus into NATO?
@@JamesKerLindsay Indeed, Hans Kelsen said that the three guarantors could intervene in the event of an external threat, but not for a domestic situation, as this was a breach of UN Charter's Article 2(7): _"Nothing contained in the present Charter shall authorize the United Nations to intervene in matters which are essentially within the domestic jurisdiction of any state or shall require the Members to submit such matters to settlement under the present Charter; but this principle shall not prejudice the application of enforcement measures under Chapter VII.”_
International politics is so ridiculous if you really think about it. Why should Britain and Turkey have any say in an island that was over 80% Greek.. If the vast vast majority of the country wanted to unify with Greece, they should have been allowed to. I understand the situation is a lot more complicated than that, but the right to self-determination just does not seem to exist.
Kibris adasinin yunanistana katilma konusunda refarandum yapildigini sanmiyorum.ayni zamanda kibris adasinda yasayan Turklerinde geleceklerini belirleme hakki var.keske rum tarafi adadaki turk varligini yok etmek icin katliam yapmaya baslamadan bunlari dusunseydi.
In your video you said the 1960 agreement gave Turkey the right for military intervention but then claim the 1974 action was an invasion after a military coup sponsored by Greece
Cyprus once again - as history clearly showcases - be ruled by the dominant power of the region. The question only remains who that is. I have a clear favorite, but time will only tell.
Prof Lindsay how does this relate to northern Cyprus and Erdogan stating he will support his brothers in Lebanon. Furthermore whilst divide and conquer tactics used by Colonial British are well known. In your opinion is there and credibility to the argument that UK/Nato have an incentive to sabotage any unification deal as that would increase chances of wanting back the 3/4% owned by UK and used as airbases?
Thanks. The Turkey angle is interesting. I hope to look at this in another video. As for the question about NATO and reunification, there’s actually a very good argument that a settlement would enhance regional stability and open the Cyprus join the organisation and hopefully remove a key source of friction between Greece and Turkey. A settlement is therefore in NATO’s best interests. And once in NATO the conversation about the Bases may change.
@@nezperce2767 Stephen Howe notes that empires by land can be characterized by expansion over terrain, "extending directly outwards from the original frontier"while an empire by sea can be characterized by colonial expansion and empire building "by an increasingly powerful navy" thus the British empire is typically regarded as colonial whilst the Ottoman as expansionist. If you’re referring to the military intervention, and subsequent land grab It is legally defined as an Occupation. Colonisation no seeing as the Turkish Cypriots were already there and the whole reason was to protect them from nationalist Greek Cypriots and stopping Cyprus annexation to Greece
@@Yahyaliye turkish immigrants are already there by Turkish permission b Turkish cyprtiots were born there actually where cypriots that converted to Islam glims on percentage of the residents of Cyprus June 1955, the vote was not honored , the britd wanted the land the cyprriots wanted their Liberty. The brits did know what to do after losing Crete India and the Middle East. I would have put Cyprus in to nato a way to make both brits and Turks to take off their masks. As for that Howe who makes - appoints him the judge over native inhabitants and their liberty. Should one sneeze and the dust would reveal what's underneath you'll see signs written in Greek for more than 2- 3 thousand years
I think this analysis, although good, seems to show Eurocentric and pro western bias. Very little effort is made to interrogate the absurd idea that Cyprus should perpetually be a vassal state to British military (and through that nato and American military). Cyprus finds itself under threat precisely because it has become an accessory to Israeli-American-British imperialism in the Middle East. From Cyprus: American, British armies gather intelligence that is passed on to Israel - allowing Israel to fire missiles that have overwhelmingly targeted civilians. Without these bases the Israeli army is limited in its genocide The position and role of Cyprus to the American-Israel-British endeavours is significant and cannot be underestimated. Cyprus is as vital to the above, as Poland and Austria were vital to Germany genocide in 1930-40s… Cyprus is an accessory! A seemingly willing accessory.
@@MU-ee9ro Thanks. But I would just say that the topic of the Bases is a completely different video. In any video I make I have to be highly focused on a specific issue otherwise it risks just becoming a rambling set of disparate talking points that viewers find hard to follow. (Scripting these videos is far harder and more time consuming than most viewers realise - and that’s before filming and editing, and responding to comments.) But on your specific point, I’d argue that it is anything but a vassal state. That was the whole point. It decided early not to join NATO to have agency over its foreign policy and it has done that. It has done that. It forged a very active line of its own throughout the Cold War, wholly separate from the presence of the Bases. More to the point, over the past decade Cyprus has steadily moved ever closer to the West to the point that there is now a very serious debate on NATO membership. (It can’t happen because of Turkey’s veto. But it is being talked about.) The world is changing, and very quickly. Sweden and Finland are now in NATO, as are all but three of its 27 EU partners. It increasingly makes sense for Cyprus to join, especially as the island appears to be under growing threat.
Your entire argument hinges on the misinformation that british bases on cyprus belongs to cyprus. They are not. They belong to the UK and are sovereign and seperate from the cypriot government. And before you do a whataboutism, the circumstances that led to pieces of the island of cyprus being under the sovereignty of a nation that is not cyprus is due to an international agreement, one that the UK, Greece and fellow muslim nation Turkey, agreed to till this day.
@@JamesKerLindsay so in your reply you have completely side stepped the issue of why Cyprus 🇨🇾 is under threat - which is its bases being used to support Israel’s war crimes… and you have spent the bulk of your argument defending NATO and European Union? I’m glad I made the conclusion that your talking points are essentially Eurocentric and western in bias. This is not a pragmatic critique of world affairs, but rather visualising the world led by an American and European imperialism. To conclude: Cyprus has come under threat from Middle East - not because it seeks to be part of the European Union or because it seeks to be more “white western” - but because its military bases - controlled by Britain (and by proxy America) are being used as an accessory to Israelis genocide! Cyprus is to American and British and Israeli endeavours, what Belarus is to Russia - a vassal and tool! Geographically convenient for the bigger powers to use to their advantage.
@MU-ee9ro No. I explained why the island is under threat. It is because Cyprus has been getting to close to Israel, holding joint exercises that were widely interpreted to be aimed at operations in Lebanon. There has never been any indication that Israeli planes have used the Bases, or that the Bases have been used for any strikes in Lebanon. But it’s clear that you want to take an aggressive tone to the discussion so let’s end it here.
@@JamesKerLindsay no. I’m not taking an “aggressive” tone - what I am taking is a position that spots bias and manipulation. Your video seeks to discuss a topic about geopolitics, but fails to tell the audience what exactly is happening: re Israel and Gaza and why the ongoing genocide / war crimes is a key factor. It’s not merely about cute joint exercises, it’s about Cyprus participating with a country that is deemed by ICC and UN to be engaged in war crimes. I’ve never seen someone try so hard to not mention context on a hugely important topic such as “war” and war crimes
Christ this content is just pure excellent from this channel. The fact that we get more info from this guy than we do from the news channels... Keep going good sir. thank you for your unbiased non sided contextual view.
Thank you so much! I can’t tell you how much I appreciate the kind words, especially at the moment. YT is becoming an increasingly challenging platform for many of us. (Poor quality AI is flooding the platform and YT is pushing sensationalistic content so many of us are seeing very serious drops in our views.) It’s really nice to hear such positive messages. Thank you!
One reason why Turks voted yes and Greeks voted no in the referendum on unification was the Turkish foundations in Southern Cyprus. The return of the properties of Turkish foundations gave the Greeks a reason to oppose unification while giving the Turks a reason to support it. It is impossible to understand Europe. Both communities have been living side by side in peace on the same island for half a century. Although the freedom environment on the Turkish side is not the same as on the Greek side, people are content with their situation. It is difficult to understand why the European community insists so much on creating a new conflict zone.
Greece thought they were smart and wanted to carve out Cyprus for themselves and disenfranchise the Turkish minority, which subsequently triggered a justified Turkish response.
Although not the main point of this video, I admit to not really thinking of Cyprus as a Middle Eastern country. It's strange---at least from the point of view of an ordinary Westerner---to realize the strong links and interactions the country has in the region just in the last few decades. Maybe it's simply my naivete, as it makes sense why it would pursue politics with its neighbours to the point of not merely being an European outpost but a participant.
Great video! From another point of view, Turkey is benefitting the most out of this develeopment. After invading Cyprus, Turkey steadily looks to conquer the woile island, one way or the other. This is the reason why it still keeps 40.000 troops, against all international laws, on a foreign invaded land. As Israel came closer to Cyprus and steadily built up a relationship,.Turkey's plan to set the whole island of Cyprus under its neoOttoman plan faces a big obstacle. Hezbolah's Turkey dpt obviously guided Lebabons Hezbolah to threat Cyprus. Please note, that just one day after Nazralas threat, Turkeys foreign min,.and exMIT head, Fidan, stated that Middle East Fire will spread all over Cyprus and (sic) other Greek Islands if Cyprus provided any kind of support to Israel, providing this way a very clear clarification of Turkeys role inall above.illegal threats against a foreign country!
Brilliant summary of a complex history, as always ... thank you! I would have appreciated a few words updating the unresolved tensions over the United Nations 'green line' and Türkiye's own military presence in Cyprus, which may become pivotal if there is conflict with Hezbollah/Iran. There is also a substantial minority of Russian nationals who have bought up 'bolt-hole' properties and businesses there, who Moscow may decide require 'protection' as in Crimea. R (Australia)
Thanks. Of course, you're right. There were any number of bits that I had to leave out. It's always the way. The problem is that when you open a new strand in any story, you then need to find a way back to the main narrative and do it without confusing viewers who might not know quite as much about a topic. But, hopefully, I explained the relationship between Cyprus, the Middle East and Europe and why current developments have made it even more complex.
@@JamesKerLindsay Thanks for your response. My remarks were by no means meant as criticism ... I am a long-time admirer of your work. As a retired journalist formerly specialising in network tv news and current affairs, I have wrestled with the same issues of brevity and simplicity versus the need to do justice to a complex story involving many actors with conflicting points of view. That's why I appreciate what you do. Sad to read you may be considering taking a break from your self-imposed Sisyphean task, but fully understand ... that's why I retired! R (Australia)
What humanitarian aid island? Stop taking the piss of the people. All the world knows that European Cyprus is a heavy military base for the West and Israel. You made me laugh by saying humanitarian and reminds me of the marine port built by the US in Gaza which was also for humanitarian too 😂
@@hitalia2000 Why such an aggressive comment? This could have been phrased in a polite and engaging way. I like to discuss things. You might disagree with what I say, but there is a pleasant way to do it that opens a sensible discussion.
@@JamesKerLindsay Whatever his attitude, the comment is absolutely correct. Cyprus has been used by the US and UK to assist the mass destruction of civilians in Gaza. It’s National Guard have trained with Israeli forces as you mention. The Cypriot government has been playing a dangerous game for some time cooperating with Israel and against the majority of its population which is sympathetic to the Palestinian cause. Israeli citizens have also been buying massive swathes of illegally occupied Greek Cypriot land in the northern sector that even prompted the Cyprus president to raise the issue with Netanyahu in early 2023. Israel is not a friend of Cyprus and it will ultimately be as great a disaster for the island as it has for the entire Middle East.
As someone who was in Cyprus a couple of times in my teens in the 1960's, I have affection for it. So I'm a bit surprised Prof James didn't explain early on in this video that Cyprus remains divided into two main parts -- though he does have a video on that issue linked at end of this comment: It is still divided as the Republic of Cyprus, which is predominantly Greek Cypriot and controls the southern part of the island, and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), which is predominantly Turkish Cypriot and controls the northern part. The division occurred in 1974 following a Greek-led coup and subsequent Turkish military intervention. The TRNC is only recognized by Turkey, while the Republic of Cyprus is internationally recognized and is a member of the European Union. His video on that division: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-dCDobf4ctUQ.html
Thanks. The problem in any 10-15 minute is keeping focus on the topic at hand. It is very easy to overload viewers with too much information. Trying to explain the whole Cyprus issue *and* explain Cyprus’s complex relationship with the Middle East and Europe was simply not possible. But thanks for highlighting the other video.
As the colonial power, I presume the British have no legitimate right to have bases there according to the UN Charter. The agreement granting independence in exchange for bases can be considered as being made under duress. Something similar to what the British did with Mauritius over the Chagos Islands. A properly independent, unified Cyprus would require the removal of the Turkish, Greek and British presence. Cyprus needs to be careful what it is letting itself in for, as a target in the Middle East conflict. The British are definitely allowing the Americans to have a base within their base. Secondly, itmust realize that the West's desire for unity is merely a precursor for the island being absorbed into NATO.
Dear James, could you explain to us why turkey invaded cyprus? Was there no reason? Such a big action, even they knew this would turn all allies against them, must have a serious reason. I noticed you skipped this part.
No serious reason , they just portray a propaganda that greek cypriots were killing turkish cypriots , which by no means the numbers justify such action
Ankara does not like seeing Cyprus becoming important for several players in the region (USA, NATO, Britain, Arab states, Egypt, Israel). After Hezbollah's trheats the Turkish FM made public statements calling Cyprus to stop working with regional players.
Obviously. Ankara crying for "Lebensraum". Erdogan, among many other Turkish officials, said it openly. Germany did the same during WW2 and... you know..
@@CaptainHarlock-kv4ztThis. Turkey is just as imperialist as other regional powers, you can clearly see that in how they behave towards the Kurds and northern Syria as well.
@@CaptainHarlock-kv4zt Fully agree, Turkey seems to be mostly ignored when criticizing imperialist countries but it's an ultranationalist and imperialist country that's just as bad as the others.
mr.James. So glad to see you. ! are we ,really under threat ? Well.. Cyprus , half almost under Turkeys OCCUPATION ,for 50 years now. Has Build a decent defence, able to protect the island from any threat Although , With Britain as a guarantor power of the islands independence , we are sure about our secure.
Behind Hezbollah is Turkey. you cant explain Hezbollah threats without understanding Turkey’s vision of invading the whole island if the opportunity appears. Well effort by the way
Hi Professor, I would say that a glaring omission in your video is an explanation of how the british bases on cyprus works and how they are not considered cypriot territory despite being on cyprus. Many in the comments are making wild misunderstandings based on cyprus somehow being puppets of the evil west or whatever
Thanks. Perhaps you’re right. I thought it was clear - especially as I said that Cyprus didn’t join NATO and was part of the non-aligned movement. It couldn’t have joined the NAM if it had British based on the islands voluntarily! But maybe that’s the problem with being too immersed in the subject. Unfortunately, this is also the way the internet works these days, and I attract more than my fair share of cranks, trolls and crackpots! People will read what they want into a situation.
Cyprus is a respected independent country also among the eastern nations . It can have its own foreign policies as many countries . But the problem is the British colonization of the country which takes place even today. Using Cyprus ground to exercise military operation not in Cyprus foreign interest its putting the independent statehood of the country at risk .
Regular Cypriots and Greeks stand with Palestinians as durrying the Ottoman rule Palestinians gave them shelter. Cypriots and Greeks want the British empire off the island.
Othomans turks and Sultan Abdul Hamid sold Palestinians homes and territories to Varon Hertz and other Jews actually. Now they want again Othomans empire so they're using Palestinians and people's faith to conquer Jerusalem Cyprus Libya Balkans Africa killing anyone else that isn't islamofascist or turk.
Greece has already officially recognized Northern Cyprus officially. By announcing that it will open a naval base in Southern Cyprus, it has accepted the fact that Southern and Northern Cyprus are separate countries. Since Turkey is a guarantor state in the order and treaty which Greece insists on, it is necessary to obtain permission from Turkey before such a declaration. Stating that he would not obtain it, they recognized and accepted the existence of Northern Cyprus and that the two are separate countries. Greece also conveyed its statements as it would be built in Southern Cyprus, that is, Greece stated that Southern Cyprus is a different country. Simple is that.
I’m not sure I follow your point. Greece has not recognised northern Cyprus. Saying it will build a base in the south of Cyprus doesn’t mean it recognises the north. It’s just giving a geographical description of where it will be located.
You know exactly who Hezbollah is threatening!. England and the western powers that, among the bases it has there, are not used for humanitarian aid but to provide cover for Israel so that it can continue its work! Apart from the political search, the interest in Cyprus is deeper, as I have a nephew who graduated in law in Paphos and worked for a long time there, I am not a "distant" judge of events but someone who is also interested in the impact on everyday life human lives!
Well Yes ,Cyprus, half almost occupied by Turkey ,have good friendship with Israel and US. What about you all Arabs What is the mutter with you been so random with the Turks ? Are they to be trusted ? Turkey Invaded and half almost occupies the island, Kicked out the local population,been replaced them till on our days,mainly by Turks,settlers from its mainland Ignoring of all of the UN resolutions about peace and justice
@@ruyaal what is the mutter with you all ,Arabs. Cyprus , IS ,by the side of PALESTINE since ever . Arafat's times Come on now Yes, Cyprus, have a strong friendship with Israel and USA . Now , What is the matter with you guys ? Been so randoms with Turkey ? Turkey Is half almost occupies my country Cyprus since 1974. 50 years now. Kicked out the local population,been replaced them till on our days,mainly by Turks,settlers from its mainland. Ignoring of all of the UN resolutions about peace and justice for the island....
I imagine Nasrallah's jingoism would be deeply unpopular amongst the island's thriving Lebanese business community. There is a deep cultural and economic cross pollination between the two states that no one wants to see disrupted.
That is why Macron says he would secure European frontiers in the fact that he knew that UK and USA would use cyprus and Albania or even turkey to destroy EU.
What the hell have you been smoking? Destroy the EU? Neither the UK or the US want to destroy the EU. They're our biggest trading and strategic partner! Cyprus is in the EU.
When Erdogan steps down, we perhaps can talk about the prospect of a truly united Europe. Everybody talks about the last divided capital of Europe - Nicosia but European Union will never be whole, never reach its full potential without Turkey’s ascension to EU. All of these might be possible once Erdogan is deposed.
I don't want to be a persnickety sillyboy but I sometimes am - map legend @3:12 has the prefectures erroneously labeled that's all. I am going to continue viewing the video now. Thank you
Will you make an update on the Caucasus region? Armenia has left the CSTO and will have military exercises with the US. Russia seem to get better ties with Azerbaijan. The government of Georgia is leaning towards Russia now. The whole caucasus seem to be turned upside-down. I know you have a video on Georgia already.
