Turkey has unveiled sweeping new military plans for Northern Cyprus, signaling the largest troop buildup in the region since 1984. Reports suggest Ankara will more than double its deployment from 40,000 to 100,000 soldiers, while bolstering bases, air defenses, drones, and coastal missile systems. Turkish officials have framed the move as a response to “growing Israeli threats,” accusing Israel of using Southern Cyprus as a forward base. The escalation comes as Ankara severs trade ties and shuts its airspace to Israel amid the Gaza war. Analysts warn the militarization of Cyprus could create a dangerous new flashpoint in the Eastern Mediterranean.
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