Cyprus, the Mediterranean island, is prepared to aid in evacuating Europeans and third-country nationals if Middle East conflicts escalate. As the European Union’s easternmost state, Cyprus has a history of providing sanctuary for those fleeing war in the volatile region.
Amid rising tensions between Israel, Iran, and Hezbollah in Lebanon, concerns of a broader conflict have surfaced. Cyprus has activated a plan called ESTIA to assist in potential evacuations. With close to 10 countries showing interest in the scheme, Cyprus’s infrastructure and capacity are ready for any mass evacuation.
The Joint Rescue Coordination Centre in Larnaca will serve as the coordination hub, drawing upon Cyprus’s past experience as an evacuation hub during the 2006 Israel-Hezbollah conflict. Cyprus aims to be a pillar of safety, stability, and peace in the region.
Source: Reuters