38 Greek Cypriots Return from Lebanon

According to Alithia newspaper, the aircraft landed at Larnaca Airport around noon, and the passengers returned home after completing passport control.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Theodoros Gotsis stated that initially, 105 Greek Cypriots in Lebanon expressed their intention to return, but this number later dropped to 45, with 38 ultimately making the trip back.

Gotsis noted that if there are other Greek Cypriots wishing to return from Lebanon, arrangements for commercial flights will be made. He highlighted that most of those in Lebanon hold dual citizenship and were not eager to leave the country. The return of the 38 was facilitated through consultations between the Greek and Cypriot Ministries of Defense.

In a related report, Politis newspaper mentioned that a number of foreigners, including British nationals, have been renting boats to leave Lebanon by sea, with Ayia Napa as their destination, according to a report from The Times in the UK.

As reported by Reuters, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and other countries are working to facilitate the evacuation of their citizens from Lebanon by sending personnel and equipment to South Cyprus.

Belgian Soldiers and Medical Team Arrive in South Cyprus

In another development, Politis reported that Belgium has sent soldiers and a medical team to South Cyprus to assist in the evacuation of its citizens from Lebanon.

Belgian Defense Minister Ludivine Dedonder stated in an interview with the Belga news agency that South Cyprus, being a non-belligerent country close to the war zone, is suitable for rescue operations.

Dedonder noted that approximately 1,800 Belgians are currently in Lebanon, with fewer than 100 expressing a desire to leave.

2,200 Shelters in South Cyprus

The newspaper also highlighted growing concerns among citizens following the escalation of the crisis in the Middle East and Iran’s missile attacks on Israel.

Considering a missile that fell in Tashkent a few years ago, the need for certain precautions has become evident. In this context, it was reported that there are 2,200 shelters in South Cyprus.

While a system to locate these shelters online has not yet been established, citizens can obtain information by contacting the Civil Defense Organization via phone.