Cyprus on standby as Middle East violence spreads

·

Cyprus is on standby to assist in the evacuation of Europeans and third-country nationals if conflict in the Middle East deepens, officials told Reuters on Thursday.

“We are ready, we have activated a specific plan, ESTIA, which has been tried and tested,” Cyprus’ deputy government spokesperson Yiannis Antoniou said.

“In the event we are asked to assist other countries who may be moving their nationals from the crisis area home, we are in a position to host them for a few days until they are repatriated.”

Cyprus anxiously awaits requests for Lebanon evacuations.
Cyprus anxiously awaits requests for Lebanon evacuations. Photo: Jalaa Marey / Agence France-Presse.

The Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) in Larnaca will serve as a hub for coordinating and controlling any rescue operations and evacuations. On Thursday, August 8, tents were erected in the compound, with cots to be used to process any arrivals.

Israel’s antagonism with Iran and the Lebanese Hezbollah movement have fanned fears of a broader conflict in the Middle East.

In 2006, Cyprus was a sanctuary for about 30,000 people who left Lebanon during a flare-up in hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah in 2006.

Source: Reuters.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

From Metallica to Maritime: The many lives of Greek shipping tycoon Harry Vafias

Though Greek shipping tycoon, Harry Vafias, spends much time working, it certainly isn't a case of 'all work and no play.’

‘I want them to know their word matters’: Peter Georgiou stands against gender violence

Peter Georgiou, a real estate agent from Rushcutters Bay and father of four-year-old twins Leila and Lola, believes change begins at home.

Thessaloniki’s Byzantine walls to shine with new light project

Thessaloniki’s iconic Byzantine Walls are set to be illuminated under a major cultural initiative announced by the Greek Ministry of Culture.

Greek World Heritage Cities face rising climate threats

Iconic Greek cities—Athens, Thessaloniki, Corfu, Rhodes, and Patmos—face serious climate threats, according to a new UNESCO-backed report.

Are apps like Duolingo enough to learn Greek, or do we need a tutor?

For many people who want to learn conversational Greek, an app, can be a very useful addition to your program.

You May Also Like

Greek migrant camp quarantined after 23 migrants test positive for coronavirus

Greece has quarantined Ritsona migrant camp for two weeks after 23 of its residents tested positive for the coronavirus.

Program released for Semaphore Greek Festival 2025: A weekend of Greek culture and festivities

The Semaphore Greek Festival 2025 is just around the corner, set to take place on January 18 and 19 at Semaphore Foreshore, South Australia.

Greek artists you don’t want to miss this European summer

The Greek Herald has got the scoop on some must-see concerts to squeeze into your trip, no matter where you are in Greece.