Repatriating Cypriots Amid Middle Eastern Crisis: Top Priority
With tensions rising in the Middle East, Cyprus is now focused on one critical task—repatriating Cypriots from Lebanon. As conflict escalates, Cyprus has become a vital hub for evacuating diplomats and citizens, highlighting the country’s role in managing this regional crisis. The repatriating Cypriots mission is not just about bringing people home but also about ensuring the safety of thousands.
Cyprus Becomes a Key Evacuation Point
As the Middle East braces for a potential all-out war, diplomats have started fleeing Beirut to Cyprus by boat. Cyprus has quickly become a central evacuation point, offering safe passage for diplomats and citizens from various countries. Amid this chaos, repatriating Cypriots from Lebanon is seen as a major national priority.
Airlift of Cypriots from Lebanon
On Wednesday, 105 Cypriot nationals were flown out of Lebanon by a Greek Lockheed C-130 military aircraft. Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos confirmed that repatriating Cypriots is the government’s top concern. These efforts are part of the broader national security strategy to ensure that Cypriots in danger are safely returned home as the situation becomes more volatile.
National Security Council’s Role in Repatriation
Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides led a special session of the national security council to address the growing crisis. During the meeting, it was reaffirmed that the “Estia” scheme, designed to help third-country nationals evacuate through Cyprus, was fully operational. This plan not only supports foreign evacuees but also reinforces repatriating Cypriots from danger zones in the Middle East.
Assistance to Other Countries
While repatriating Cypriots remains the primary goal, Cyprus has extended its support to other nations. Authorities are assisting nine other countries in evacuating their nationals through Cyprus. While Kombos did not disclose which nations are involved, it is clear that Cyprus is playing a critical role in this international crisis.
Security Measures and Evacuations from Lebanon
The Cypriot government is taking additional measures to ensure the safe evacuation of citizens and foreign nationals. As the situation escalates, repatriating Cypriots has become more urgent. Kombos has urged all Cypriots in Lebanon and Israel to register with their diplomatic missions to facilitate their repatriation.
The Impact of Closed Airspace
The missile strikes launched by Iran on Israel have led to the closure of airspace in Israel, Lebanon, Iran, Iraq, and Jordan. As a result, over 1,858 passengers were stranded in Cyprus after flights were diverted. The Cypriot government has been actively working to manage these displaced passengers, organizing accommodations for 705 people at Larnaca airport and 349 others in hotels while their onward journeys are arranged.
The Role of Cyprus in the Lebanese Exodus
While repatriating Cypriots is a priority, Cyprus has also become a landing point for diplomats and other foreign nationals fleeing Lebanon by sea. Every day, six to seven boats arrive at the marinas of Larnaca and Ayia Napa, bringing foreign diplomats and EU citizens. In total, 30 boats carrying around 500 people have already arrived, and more are expected.
Handling the Influx of Evacuees
Cypriot authorities are adhering to EU migration regulations to manage the influx of evacuees. Only those who meet the specific criteria will be allowed to stay in Cyprus. Meanwhile, the Red Cross has organized efforts to recruit boat owners to assist in evacuating people from Lebanon, although reports suggest some foreign boat owners are charging as much as €5,000 per person for transport.
Preparing for Future Evacuations
Cyprus is coordinating closely with Greece and other partners to continue its evacuation efforts. The possibility of using military aircraft and commercial flights remains on the table as part of the repatriating Cypriots mission. In addition to airlifts, efforts are being made to help people reach Cyprus through its ports.
Ensuring National Security Amid the Crisis
The Cypriot government is not only focused on repatriating Cypriots but also ensuring that the country remains secure during this time of upheaval. Security measures are in place to prevent any illegal arrivals while assisting those who genuinely need refuge. With thousands of people seeking to evacuate the Middle East, the situation remains tense, and Cyprus must balance humanitarian efforts with national security.
Conclusion: Repatriating Cypriots as a National Priority
As conflict in the Middle East continues to worsen, repatriating Cypriots from Lebanon and other affected areas remains a top priority for the Cypriot government. The country’s swift actions to evacuate its nationals and assist other nations demonstrate its crucial role in this regional crisis. As more people seek refuge in Cyprus, the government will continue to navigate the challenges of managing security, humanitarian aid, and international cooperation.
In times of crisis, the Cypriot government has shown that repatriating Cypriots is more than just a logistical operation—it’s a matter of national importance. Through coordination with international partners, Cyprus is proving its ability to handle complex evacuations while maintaining its security and stability.
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