Radio communications with the approaching aircraft were disrupted by controllers at Ercan Airport, while two Turkish F‑16s reportedly took off to monitor the government aircraft at a distance.

Cyprus’s president’s office indicated the matter would be raised with international bodies, highlighting the island’s division since the 1974 Turkish invasion.

Cypriot authorities described the incident as unlawful and a violation of international law, though they did not provide technical details.

Turkish Cypriot authorities condemned the SOFA as null and void, arguing it could shift regional power dynamics and that the Republic of Cyprus lacks authority to represent the entire island.

There are ongoing efforts to coordinate with international bodies on Cyprus-related airspace tensions and to maintain awareness of the situation.

The broader historical context includes a 1998 Turkish F‑16 deployment to Cyprus and debates over foreign military presence, including U.S. conditions on F‑16 use and Turkey’s 2024 arms deal linked to Sweden’s NATO accession.

Turkey maintains a military presence in northern Cyprus and uses facilities there, contributing to regional tensions.

There was no immediate comment from Turkey regarding the allegations.

France, Greece, and the Netherlands informed Cyprus of alleged interference as Greek Defence Minister’s aircraft approached the island, with Turkish F‑16s reportedly in the area.

Air Traffic Controllers’ Union rejected the claims as politically motivated, saying there was no harassment or boundary violation because the F‑16s were responding to an emergency and regular flight operations continued.

Cyprus’s presidential press office said the incident would be reported through proper channels, with Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas set to brief EU officials at the upcoming EU defence ministers summit.

The Cypriot government confirmed the incident after being briefed by the president’s office spokesperson, with Palmas planned to raise it at EU meetings.