Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus has activated its repatriation plan to bring home hundreds of citizens stranded by the war in Iran and the wider Levant, with authorities saying the priority is their safe return. The message was reiterated after security consultations on Friday.
Registrations and locations
Government sources said several hundred Cypriots have registered for assistance, with estimates placing the figure at around 600, the vast majority of whom are in the United Arab Emirates, mainly visitors in Dubai.
Coordination through connect2cy amid airspace closures
The foreign ministry said it is in constant contact with those registered on the connect2cy platform, guiding them through arrangements as airspace closures continue across the region.
Accommodation and airline arrangements
For Cypriots currently in Abu Dhabi, the government said it will cover accommodation costs, while efforts are ongoing to support those in Dubai. Cypriots who travelled with Emirates have been advised that the airline will cover their expenses directly, while others have been asked to update their airline details through the registration platform to facilitate coordination.
Returns from other affected countries
A smaller number of Cypriots remain in other affected countries, with officials saying their return will take place once airspace restrictions are lifted.
EU consultations and readiness measures
“The safe repatriation of citizens is our priority,” Foreign Minister Konstantinos Kombos told an extraordinary meeting of the foreign affairs council of the EU, stressing the need for coordination and a unified flow of information. Government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis said Cyprus was fully operationally ready to assist.
“All actions are being taken so that we are in readiness and can act as soon as this becomes possible,” he said, adding that Cyprus continues to play a humanitarian role in the region and is examining requests “with responsibility and a positive approach”.
Security posture
Officials said Cyprus is not a target and is not participating in military action, even as security protocols have been activated at critical infrastructure.
Have you registered on the connect2cy platform if you need assistance returning to Cyprus?
