Why do they keep arguing about Cyprus? Is it because of the beaches?

No, the Cyprus conflict is not about beaches. The reason behind the ongoing conflict over Cyprus is deeply rooted in history and politics, and it involves the interests and aspirations of various parties.

Cyprus is a small island located in the eastern Mediterranean, which has been inhabited by Greeks and Turks for centuries. In 1960, it gained independence from the British Empire and became a republic. However, tensions between the two communities started to rise soon after, and in 1974, a Greek military junta backed coup led to a Turkish military intervention, resulting in the division of the island. The northern part of the island has been under Turkish control since then and declared independence in 1983, but it is only recognized by Turkey.

The conflict has various dimensions, including the political, legal, and military aspects. The Greek Cypriot side, which controls the internationally recognized government, seeks the reunification of the island under its control, while the Turkish Cypriot side advocates for a two-state solution. Turkey supports the Turkish Cypriot side and has stationed troops in the northern part of the island. Meanwhile, Greece and the Greek Cypriot side have the backing of the European Union and the United Nations.

The conflict is also fueled by geopolitical interests, including the control of energy resources in the eastern Mediterranean, the influence of regional powers, and the dynamics of the Greek-Turkish relationship. Moreover, the Cyprus issue has become a symbol of the long-standing historical grievances and ethnic tensions between the two communities, which have deep roots in the Ottoman and colonial past of the region.