Cyprus has reported extensive Turkish air space violations to the UN Security Council, detailing 328 air incursions and 16 naval breaches during July and August 2025.
- Cyprus has reported extensive Turkish air space violations to the UN Security Council, detailing 328 air incursions and 16 naval breaches during July and August 2025.
A letter from Cyprus’s Permanent Mission was circulated among council members on 8 December, revealing that among the air violations, 93 involved Turkish unmanned military aircraft, while 56 were executed by armed military fighter jets. These actions have been described by Nicosia as a clear violation of its sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.
The violations extended beyond mere incursions. Cyprus asserted that Turkish forces breached its national airspace, the Nicosia Flight Information Region (FIR), and territorial waters. Furthermore, allegations were made regarding the illegal use of closed ports and airports by Turkish military units.
Concerns were also raised over nearly daily entries into the designated dead zone and the bolstering of military infrastructure in occupied territories. Such practices have been characterised as part of Turkey’s persistent aggressive behaviour, aimed at establishing new faits accomplis that threaten the security of all Cypriots.
In its communication to the UN, Cyprus emphasised that these developments undermine efforts to resume negotiations for a peaceful resolution. Despite these challenges, Cyprus reiterated its commitment to working closely with the Secretary-General and his Personal Envoy to foster the necessary conditions for dialogue. The letter reaffirmed a desire for a bicommunal, bizonal federation with political equality, in line with United Nations resolutions.
The Cypriot mission has requested that the letter and accompanying documents be officially recorded as part of the 80th Session of the General Assembly under the Cyprus question and the Security Council agenda.