Officials discussed developing additional mechanisms to improve the two countries’ ability to respond jointly to major emergencies.
By United with Israel Staff
Israel and Cyprus are expanding cooperation on emergency preparedness and crisis response as the two countries work to strengthen coordination and mutual assistance during major emergencies, Israel’s Defense Ministry announced.
As part of the ongoing partnership, Brig. Gen. (res.) Itzik Bar, head of the National Emergency Management Authority at the Defense Ministry, traveled to Cyprus for a two-day working visit and met with senior officials responsible for defense, civil protection and emergency management.
Bar met with Cyprus’ interior and defense ministers; Maj. Gen. Harris Georgiou, chief of staff of the Cypriot Defense Ministry and incoming deputy commander of the National Guard; acting Civil Defence commander Col. Theodoros Lemonatis; and other senior officials.
The talks focused on advancing a joint Israel-Cyprus work plan for 2026-2027, strengthening professional coordination and expanding the exchange of knowledge and operational experience.
Officials also discussed developing additional mechanisms to improve the two countries’ ability to respond jointly to major emergencies.
The Israeli delegation visited the Cyprus Regional Aerial Firefighting Station at the Paphos air base as part of preparations for Israel to participate in a regional coordination framework for responding to large-scale wildfires.
The Defense Ministry said the cooperation is intended to strengthen regional resilience and improve both countries’ ability to respond effectively to natural disasters and other civilian emergencies.
“After two days of joint work, Israel and Cyprus have significantly strengthened the foundation for cooperation between them, deepening our strategic partnership and joint preparedness for emergencies on the civilian front,” Bar said.
Lemonatis said Israel and Cyprus face common challenges and share a commitment to protecting their citizens.
“We look forward to deepening our cooperation through the exchange of experience, expertise and best practices, while exploring new opportunities for joint activities and further strengthening our preparedness and response capabilities,” he said.
Israel’s delegation also included senior National Emergency Management Authority officials, Israeli Ambassador to Cyprus Oren Anolik and Deputy Ambassador Kobi Waller.
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