Cyprus is once again on edge after sirens sounded near RAF Akrotiri, just days after a drone incident rattled nerves around the British base.

As tensions rise across the Middle East, the island's leaders are insisting Cyprus is not entering the conflict. But on the ground, the signs of a major security tightening are impossible to ignore.

At RAF Akrotiri, there are more checks, more movement and more scrutiny over everything arriving by land, air and sea. The atmosphere has changed sharply, with the military presence becoming increasingly visible.

Government officials in Nicosia are describing the foreign military build-up as a necessary precaution, not a sign that Cyprus is taking part in military action. Their message is clear: the Republic is not choosing sides, but it is preparing for any threat that could spill closer to home.

The Justice Minister said a high-level security system is now in place to protect against dangers from drones or missiles, as authorities work to reassure a nervous public.

And the military hardware is mounting.

Greece has moved four F-16 fighter jets to Paphos and sent two frigates into Cypriot waters, including one equipped for counter-drone defence. France has also completed plans to deploy a frigate with anti-missile and counter-drone capabilities. Cyprus is now coordinating closely with allies over what may happen next.

Local leaders say the growing show of force is beginning to calm fears and restore some confidence in the area.

Kourion Municipality Mayor Pandelis Georgiou said defense around Akrotiri has been significantly strengthened in recent days, with support arriving from Greece and France, while Italy and Spain are also expected to contribute naval assets.

But despite the extra jets, ships and air-defense systems, one troubling question refuses to go away: if an attack breaks through, where do civilians run?

Georgiou warned that neither the Republic nor the Sovereign Base Areas have built bunkers around Akrotiri, despite its highly sensitive military importance. He said the issue has now been raised urgently because, in the event of an emergency, there is nowhere obvious to move people to safety.

For now, Cyprus insists it is not joining the war. But the island is clearly bracing for danger.

With more sirens, more warships and more allied firepower gathering around it, Cyprus is discovering the hard truth of its strategic position: in a volatile region, being a vital hub can also mean becoming a target.