Brussels: The Republic of Cyprus is making significant efforts under challenging and dangerous conditions to ensure the safe return of its citizens from Israel and Iran, as confirmed by Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos during a press briefing in Nicosia following a Cabinet meeting.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the initial phase of the operation involves relocating citizens to neighboring countries where they are safer, followed by efforts to bring them back home. Minister Kombos highlighted a coordinated effort involving diplomatic missions in Israel and Iran, alongside the crisis management team at the Ministry. He noted that 17 Cypriots from Israel and 5 from Iran have already been moved to safer locations, with some having successfully arrived in Cyprus.
Kombos explained that repatriating citizens depends on securing available flights. Ten individuals who traveled by road into Egypt from Israel were transported by Greek Air Force aircraft to Greece, with further arrangements in place for their return to Cyprus via Athens. Additionally, three citizens who crossed into Jordan have been repatriated on a Slovak Air Force flight, landing in Larnaca as part of the national plan “ESTIA,” designed for emergency evacuations through Cyprus.
The Foreign Minister also reported that 4 people, including 2 patients and their companions, have returned from Israel via air ambulance. The number of Cypriots wishing to be repatriated from Israel is 53, though 19 have opted to stay and assess the situation.
Regarding Iran, Kombos detailed an effort to transport five Cypriot citizens from Tehran to Armenia, with plans for their return to Cyprus likely by tomorrow. Two citizens remain in Iran, relocated to a safer area near the Caspian Sea, while another requested assistance but missed the initial convoy.
Kombos stated that there are no new requests under the ESTIA plan from foreign nationals, except for Slovakia’s completed request and an ongoing one from Portugal. The situation remains fluid, and authorities are vigilant.
Addressing inquiries about Iran, Kombos acknowledged a travel advisory but emphasized the Ministry’s focus on assisting citizens regardless of their reasons for being in Iran.
With regard to US aircraft on the island, Kombos clarified that it relates to American evacuation efforts and carries no additional implications.
In an informal Council of Foreign Ministers of the EU meeting, the central message was the urgent need for de-escalation, emphasizing the EU’s role in fostering dialogue and diplomacy. Kombos also addressed concerns about fake news, reaffirming Cyprus’ humanitarian role with no operational involvement.
Cyprus continues to receive assistance requests, as seen previously with Sudan, Israel, and Lebanon.