Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias has launched a high-stakes diplomatic mission in London, meeting with top British officials as the Eastern Mediterranean braces for the fallout of a widening regional war involving Iran.
Mr. Dendias held a private session with UK National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell to coordinate responses to the "rapidly deteriorating" situation in the Middle East.
The talks, which included a review of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, focused heavily on the security of Cyprus following recent drone strikes on British sovereign bases on the island.
"We exchanged views on the geopolitical situation in the Middle East, Iran, and the broader security threats that now intersect with the Eastern Mediterranean," Mr. Dendias said in a statement.
He emphasized that the defense of Cyprus remains a "top priority" for Athens and London, particularly after Greece deployed frigates and F-16 Vipers to the island earlier this month.
The visit comes at a critical juncture for European security.
On Tuesday, Mr. Dendias will meet with his British counterpart, Defense Secretary John Healey, to finalize details of a new bilateral defense and innovation framework.
The ministers are expected to discuss the "Achilles’ Shield" initiative—Greece’s €4.7 billion plan for a layered air defense system—and the potential for joint maritime patrols as the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed to commercial traffic.
British officials said that the deployment of the HMS Dragon and RAF Typhoons to the region has been closely coordinated with Greek intelligence.
Mr. Dendias's mission reflects Athens' effort to cement its role as a regional stabilizer while the European Union weighs a broader naval intervention in the Gulf.