Cyprus: Explosive Tension in Pergamos as Occupation Army Mobilizes 15 Tanks
Tensions escalated in Cyprus’s demilitarized Pergamos zone as unauthorized police presence triggered UN and Turkish military responses, prompting calls for calm and restraint to uphold peace.
Tensions and security procedure violations were recorded today in the dead zone of Pergamos in Cyprus, involving the “police,” the occupying army, and UNFICYP (United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus).
According to information from the Cyprus News Agency (CNA), the United Nations attempted to prevent the illegal entry of “police” officers into the area, an action that led to a call for reinforcements and an escalation of tensions. During the operation, static patrols of UNFICYP were observed, as well as Turkish forces, alongside technical movements such as the transfer of about 15 tanks.
Significantly, a Turkish flag was placed at a specific point in the dead zone, while numerous “police” forces in civilian attire gathered in the area. Simultaneously, the Sovereign Base Areas authorities have deployed police forces in various locations for enhanced monitoring.
In the latest UNFICYP announcements, it is assured that the situation remains under control and patrols in the area continue. The Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Khassim Diagne, has stated that calm and restraint are necessary, respecting the UN mandate.
