Why Cyprus Is Suddenly a Flashpoint for Türkiye, Israel and India

In the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, July 20th, 1974 remains a defining date. Its when Ankara intervened to protect Turkish Cypriots from ethnic violence. Fifty one years later, President Erdogan is doubling down on calls for a two state solution, echoed at the UN by Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. But Cyprus today is more than a lingering conflict. Its becoming a geopolitical fault line. Where battles over energy, territory, and influence are drawing in new players and raising new stakes.

Once centered on Gaza and Syria, Türkiyes tensions with Israel now extend to a divided Cyprus. Israeli investors are snapping up land across the island, including in areas Ankara sees as critical to Turkish Cypriot security. At the same time, the Greek Cypriot administration is tightening defense ties with Israel. They are also exploring deeper cooperation with India, whose Prime Minister Modi recently visited the island amid growing interest in an economic corridor connecting India and Europe. With energy, trade, and influence at stake, is Cyprus becoming the next front in a regional power struggle?

Guests:
Dimitrios Triantafyllou
Panteion University International Politics Professor

Sait Aksit
Near East University Associate Professor

Zuhal Mert Uzuner
Marmara University Professor