Cyprus voices solidarity with Kuwait, supports US-Iran ceasefire as step toward de-escalation

Cyprus has thrown its weight behind the ceasefire between the United States and Iran, with Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos telling his Kuwaiti counterpart on Thursday that Nicosia sees the truce as a step toward wider regional de-escalation, including in Lebanon.

In a post following his call with Kuwait’s Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Kombos said he expressed Cyprus’ solidarity with Kuwait and underlined that the ceasefire represents “a crucial step in promoting lasting de-escalation throughout the region, including Lebanon.” He added that “continued diplomacy and active dialogue are essential for comprehensive and lasting regional stability.” The outreach forms part of a series of diplomatic contacts by Cyprus as tensions persist despite the ceasefire agreement, which was brokered to halt hostilities between Washington and Tehran.

Kombos has consistently emphasized the need for the ceasefire to extend to its originally agreed framework, particularly in relation to Lebanon. In parallel discussions with regional counterparts, he has urged restraint and adherence to international law, stressing the “imperative need to protect civilians” and support for state sovereignty.

In a separate communication with Lebanese Foreign Minister Youssef Raghi, Kombos reaffirmed Cyprus’ position, stating support for Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity while urging immediate de-escalation by all parties. Cyprus has also engaged with Israeli and Iranian officials, seeking to reinforce the ceasefire and encourage broader compliance.

In talks with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, Kombos warned that continued operations in the south of the Lebanon up the Litani River and, most recently, strikes in Beirut risk undermining stabilisation efforts.

The government has framed its diplomacy as part of a broader effort to support stability in the Levant and the wider Middle East, with Kombos reiterating that sustained dialogue remains essential to consolidating any de-escalation.