Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades has dismissed reports of disruptions at Cyprus’s ports and airports as “misinformation,” insisting that the island’s infrastructure is functioning normally despite regional tensions.
During a visit to the DP World Limassol and Eurogate terminals on Friday morning, Vafeades stressed that the economy would not be held “hostage” by the ongoing conflict. He said any suggestion that port operations had ceased was false and warned that such claims damage the national economy and affect workers.
“Our ports are open and operating normally; they have not stopped at all, just as our airports have not closed,” Vafeades said. He added that Cypriot airspace remains open continuously, contrary to circulating reports.
The Minister emphasised that Cyprus is not a party to the regional conflict. “Our country will not be part of this clash, and our economy will not be held hostage by it,” he said, adding that the government remains focused on its humanitarian role.
Vafeades highlighted that Limassol port continues to serve as a hub for aid to Gaza. He noted that supplies, including prefabricated housing, beds, and food, are being processed and moved daily from the DP World warehouse.
Addressing concerns about global supply chain disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, Vafeades said the situation is being monitored. He noted that a “worst-case scenario” would involve a repeat of last year’s logistics shift where goods were rerouted through the Strait of Gibraltar, though he clarified that this has not yet happened.
The Minister reported that there have been 50 ship arrivals and departures in Limassol over the last five days, which he described as normal activity. Simon Pitout, CEO of DP World Limassol, confirmed that the port remains a “vital national infrastructure” and stays fully operational in cooperation with security authorities.
