Full Breakdown
U.S. Renewal of Defense Waiver for Cyprus Draws Mixed Reactions
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: Extension of the ITAR Waiver for Cyprus
The United States renewed a waiver that lifts International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) restrictions on the Republic of Cyprus for the 2027 fiscal year, permitting export, re-export and transfer of U.S. defense equipment, services and excess defense articles.
Background & Context
Since 1987 the United States has barred direct defense sales to Cyprus, a policy meant to encourage a settlement after the 1974 Turkish intervention and the 1983 declaration of independence by the Turkish-controlled north. Over the past decade bilateral security cooperation has deepened, highlighted by a Defense and Security Cooperation Dialogue launched in 2021 and a defense roadmap signed in 2024.
Official Statements & Responses
- U.S. Ambassador John Breslow – After meeting President Nikos Christodoulides, Breslow said the leaders discussed “great cooperation” and noted projects such as a visa-waiver programme, energy collaboration and expansion of the Andreas Papandreou Air Base in Paphos with U.S. funding for heavy-lift transport aircraft.
- Ömer Çelik, AKP Spokesman – Condemned the decision as “wrong,” saying it damages trust and reaffirming Turkey’s guarantor role in Cyprus.
Criticism & Opposition
- Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY) – Called on Congress to pass the End Cyprus Embargo Act for a permanent removal of the restrictions.
- American Jewish Committee and Hellenic American Leadership Council – Co-authored an article urging an end to the embargo, linking Cyprus’s security to broader efforts against terrorist networks supported by Iran.
- Turkish and Northern Cypriot Officials – Warned the waiver could destabilise the region and undermine inter-communal trust.
Why It Matters / Impact
The waiver expands U.S. defense cooperation with the Republic of Cyprus, granting access to foreign military sales and excess articles. Supporters say it bolsters stability in the Eastern Mediterranean; opponents argue it may shift procurement toward other suppliers and heighten tensions with the Turkish Cypriot community. The move reflects bipartisan congressional backing for a long-term exemption, underscoring continued American strategic interest in the Levant.
Timeline
- 13 September – Cyprus Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the waiver renewal.
- 2021 – Establishment of the Defense and Security Cooperation Dialogue.
- 2024 – Signing of the bilateral defense cooperation roadmap.
Data & Statistics
- The waiver covers the 2027 fiscal year and enables transfer of U.S. defense equipment and services.
- The original embargo has been in place since 1987.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Critics suggest the waiver may push Cyprus toward alternative arms suppliers, but no quantitative evidence is provided. Data on actual procurement outcomes under the renewed waiver remain pending.