Plans to install 32 new military communication antennas at the Akrotiri (Agrotur) base, under British sovereignty in southern Cyprus, have been met with strong protests from the local community. The reaction to this plan has primarily been shaped by environmental concerns and health worries.
Protest Movements and Participants
The Kourion Municipality organized a protest against the construction of new military communication antennas around the Akrotiri base. Various environmental organizations, including the Akrotiri Zero Hour Movement, Green Party members, and the Merra Akrotiri Committee, participated and lent their support to the protest.
Protesters gathered in front of the Kourion Municipality building and then marched to the main gate of the Akrotiri base. During the march, they submitted a declaration containing their demands to the base authorities.
Environmental Concerns and History
The concerns raised against the protested plan stem from fears that the new antennas will emit radiation and harm the environment. The local community is worried about the potential negative effects on their health.
According to previous reports in the South Cyprus press, the decision to install new military antennas at the Akrotiri base was made following a drone strike that occurred last year. The incident was said to target the base in connection with the actions of the U.S. and Israel against Iran on March 1.
Under the Cyprus Independence Agreement reached in 1960, the UK has sovereignty over two bases, Akrotiri and Dhekelia. In addition to these bases, there is a radar station in the Troodos Mountains and some military monitoring areas. The UK has rights to approximately 40 military facilities and checkpoints on the island, but only 15 of these facilities are currently active.
Source: www.yeniduzen.com
