Cypriot authorities are on high alert, preparing for a potential mass displacement of third-country nationals from Lebanon to Cyprus in the event of a war between Israel and Hezbollah.
The US has been actively assessing potential evacuation sites in the region. A pre-existing plan, partially implemented last autumn amidst Israel-Gaza tensions, is ready for activation, according to sources.
This plan primarily focuses on evacuating third-country nationals from Lebanon, recognising the potential for a large-scale exodus.
Unlike previous events, a conflict in Lebanon could trigger a broader need for evacuation, potentially including Lebanese citizens seeking refuge in Cyprus. This could also lead to an increase in irregular migration attempts by boat.
Richard Verma, US Assistant Secretary of State for Conflict Management and Resources, recently visited Beirut, Nicosia, and Adana, Turkey, to assess emergency preparedness and resource availability.
As stated in a US State Department announcement, Verma visited key Cypriot facilities to be informed about the ongoing planning for crisis management in the region. Verma’s visit to Cyprus was “the next step in a continued, collaborative partnership between the United States and the Republic of Cyprus to enhance security and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean,” the State Department announcement said.
Both Cyprus and Turkey’s Incirlik Air Base are expected to play pivotal roles in any evacuation efforts. Cyprus has a history of facilitating evacuations, as highlighted by Foreign Minister Konstantinos Kombos, noting Lebanon in 2006, Sudan in 2023 and Israel after October 7, as examples.
Speaking during an American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA) conference in Larnaca, Kombos emphasised the strengthened US-Cyprus relationship, noting its potential for further growth through initiatives like the recently announced Strategic Dialogue.
Cyprus condemns attack on Majdal Shams
The Cyprus Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday condemned the Hezbollah rocket attack that killed 12 children in the centre of the Druze town of Majdal Shams in the Golan Heights.
“Firmly condemning the attack on the Majdal Shams soccer field causing the tragic death of civilians including children. Civilians and civilian infrastructure must be protected under international humanitarian law,” the Ministry said in a post on X while calling for de-escalation.
Firmly condemning the attack on the Majdal Shams soccer field causing the tragic death of civilians including children.
— Cyprus MFA (@CyprusMFA) July 27, 2024
Civilians and civilian infrastructure must be protected under international humanitarian law.
It is of utmost importance to ensure de-escalation and prevent…
