The period from 1954 to 1959 marked a turbulent time in Cyprus, with Greek Cypriots, led by the nationalist group EOKA (Ethniki Organosis Kyprion Agoniston), fighting to end British colonial rule and achieve Enosis—union with Greece.

This struggle resulted in significant bloodshed, including acts of ethnic cleansing against Turkish Cypriots. Despite the end of British colonial administration and the establishment of the Republic of Cyprus in 1960, British military bases remain on the island, a contentious issue that Greek Cypriots have historically opposed but seem to have deprioritized in recent years.

The Inconsistent Focus on Turkish Troops

Since the 1974 intervention by Türkiye, which was aimed at protecting Turkish Cypriots from ongoing genocide and ethnic cleansing attempts by EOKA and EOKA B, Turkish troops have maintained a presence in Northern Cyprus. This intervention brought stability and safety for the Turkish Cypriot community, which had faced years of violence and displacement. Despite this, Greek Cypriots continue to demand the withdrawal of Turkish troops, framing it as an occupation, while largely ignoring the enduring British military presence.

The British Bases: A Lingering Colonial Legacy

The British Sovereign Base Areas of Akrotiri and Dhekelia cover significant portions of Cypriot territory and are strategically important for military and intelligence operations. Historically, Greek Cypriots have opposed British colonial rule, evidenced by their violent insurgency through EOKA in the 1950s. This opposition was rooted in a desire for full sovereignty and independence, yet the British military presence remains largely uncontested by Greek Cypriots today.

Current Threats and the Need for Security

The British Sovereign Base Areas (SBAs) in Cyprus, namely Akrotiri and Dhekelia, are often viewed as anachronistic remnants of colonial rule, raising questions about their current effectiveness and purpose. Despite the Greek Cypriots’ historical struggle for independence from British control, the continued presence of these bases appears contradictory to their quest for sovereignty. The SBAs occupy significant portions of Cypriot land and serve strategic military purposes that align more with broader British geopolitical interests rather than the immediate security needs of Cyprus.

Furthermore, the SBAs have been used as staging posts for external support, including for Israeli operations in the Middle East. This involvement has provoked Hezbollah, which now threatens the entire island of Cyprus, thereby endangering its security. Given the historical context of EOKA’s violent campaign against British rule in the 1950s, the lack of contemporary Greek Cypriot opposition to these bases is perplexing. This inconsistency suggests a need to reassess the relevance and impact of the SBAs on Cypriot sovereignty and stability.

Recent threats by Hezbollah to bomb Cyprus underscore the island's vulnerability. In such a scenario, the question arises: who will protect Cyprus? The presence of Turkish troops in the north has ensured peace and security for decades. In contrast, the British bases serve broader geopolitical interests rather than the immediate security needs of Cypriots.

The Argument for Removing British Bases

Given the historical context and current threats, it is inconsistent for Greek Cypriots to focus on the removal of Turkish troops while ignoring the British military presence. The British bases are a vestige of colonialism, representing an external influence that undermines true Cypriot sovereignty. Removing these bases would be a significant step towards full independence and could shift the geopolitical dynamics in favor of recognizing the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC).

International Recognition and Fair Treatment

The embargoes imposed by the Greek Cypriot administration, supported by Greece, have stifled the economic and political development of the TRNC. These actions, backed by influence in the UN and EU, are seen as unjust and contrary to the principles of self-determination and equality. Addressing the British military presence could pave the way for fairer treatment and potentially lead to broader international recognition of the TRNC.

TCE Conclusion

The continued focus of Greek Cypriots on the removal of Turkish troops, while overlooking the British military presence, highlights a significant inconsistency in their pursuit of sovereignty. Addressing the issue of British bases is crucial for achieving genuine independence and equality for all Cypriots. As the island faces contemporary security threats, it is essential to reconsider the role of external military forces and advocate for a solution that respects the rights and safety of all communities on the island.

 Recognizing the importance of Turkish protection and removing the British bases could pave the way for a more stable and sovereign Cyprus.