Given the tense situation in the Middle East, the Republic of Cyprus is preparing for possible evacuations of citizens of EU countries and other states from Lebanon.
As Cypriot government spokesman Giannis Antoniou explained, preparations are in full swing in the event of further military escalation in Lebanon. Cyprus, which is geographically closest to the region, regularly serves as a hub for aid and evacuation operations.
If the airport in Beirut is closed, ferries could be used to bring people to the Cypriot port cities of Limassol or Larnaca. Since the beginning of the Gaza war, people have been brought to safety several times via these routes. The "Hestia" evacuation plan provides for refugees to be temporarily housed in tents, schools and hotels in Cyprus until they can travel on to their home countries.
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