Allegations of Iranian espionage in Cyprus have intensified after Israeli intelligence services claimed that Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) operated a covert network smuggling explosive drones through Turkey into Cyprus.
In a joint statement, Mossad, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), and Shin Bet alleged that the operation formed part of a wider international intelligence structure targeting Israeli and Western interests across multiple countries.
According to the Israeli statement, the Iran-Cyprus espionage network involved the transfer of explosive drones from Iran through Turkey, with Cyprus identified as a key transit and operational point.
Israeli authorities claim the network extended beyond Cyprus to Azerbaijan, Greece and other European states, with operatives allegedly tasked with intelligence gathering on military bases and strategic infrastructure.
The allegations describe a coordinated structure allegedly directed by IRGC Unit 4000, which Israel says is responsible for overseas intelligence operations and covert activity.
The Iran-Cyprus espionage case also includes claims of surveillance near US and NATO-linked military facilities, including the Incirlik Air Base in Turkey and the Souda Bay naval base in Greece.
Israeli officials further alleged that operatives collected reconnaissance on military installations and shipping routes linked to regional energy infrastructure.
Arrests and previous incidents cited
Israeli authorities referenced previous arrests in Cyprus and Greece involving Azerbaijani nationals accused of espionage and intelligence gathering on Israeli-linked targets.
One case cited involved a dual Azerbaijani-British national arrested in Cyprus on suspicion of espionage, which Israeli officials said had disrupted a planned attack against Israeli interests.
The latest espionage claims link these incidents to a broader intelligence structure allegedly coordinated by Iranian operatives abroad.
Iran rejects allegations
Iran’s embassy in Nicosia has strongly denied the accusations, describing them as “unfounded and politically motivated.”
The embassy rejected claims of involvement in any drone smuggling or covert operations, arguing that the allegations are aimed at diverting attention from regional military developments.
It also reiterated Iran’s respect for Cyprus’ sovereignty and denied any attempt to destabilise relations with other countries.
Regional security concerns grow
The Iran-Cyprus espionage allegations come amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, with ongoing hostilities between Israel and Iran contributing to wider regional instability.
Security experts note that Cyprus’ geographic position continues to make it strategically significant in intelligence and defence calculations involving Eastern Mediterranean and Middle Eastern security dynamics.
The claims also highlight growing concerns over cross-border intelligence operations and the increasing role of drone technology in modern security threats.
Western officials, including UK representatives in Cyprus, have previously acknowledged heightened security measures at military installations on the island due to regional risks.
The Iran-Cyprus espionage case is now expected to remain a focal point in ongoing diplomatic and security discussions.
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