Cypriot parliament investigates security risks of National Guard visits to occupied territories

The Parliamentary Committee on Defense in Cyprus held a closed-door session on September 24, 2026, to address security risks associated with National Guard personnel visiting the occupied territories. The discussion was prompted by a recent incident involving the detention of a National Guard member in the occupied areas and was initiated by MPs Eugenios Champoullas and Christos Christou. Attendees included Minister of Defense Vassilis Palmas, Chief of the National Guard Lieutenant General Emmanouil Theodorou, and Intelligence Service (KYP) Chief Tasos Tzionis.

Historical concerns regarding these visits date back to at least 2011, when then-Chief Stylianos Nasias warned that Turkish intelligence (MIT) could target and attempt to recruit military personnel. While a current General Staff order urges staff to avoid such travel, it is not a formal prohibition, leaving the decision to individual discretion. Lawmakers are now evaluating whether these visits undermine military discipline and pose broader state security threats. The investigation aims to clarify the circumstances of recent crossings and potential future policy changes to mitigate espionage risks.