Nicosia, Cyprus. The United States has authorised the departure of non-essential government personnel and their family members from Cyprus and urged Americans to reconsider travel to the island, citing heightened security risks linked to the expanding conflict with Iran.
US security alert and regional advisory
In a security alert issued on Wednesday, the US State Department said the decision was taken “due to a risk to their safety,” as regional hostilities intensify and military activity increases across neighbouring countries. The advisory applies to staff at the US Embassy in Cyprus and follows similar elevations of security risk levels for Americans in Jordan, Oman, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
Military deployments and heightened readiness
France has deployed air defence assets to Cyprus, while President Emmanuel Macron said the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle, along with accompanying naval forces, has been ordered to the eastern Mediterranean.
Greece has reinforced its presence, with two frigates, the Kimon and the Psara, arriving in Limassol and four Greek F-16 fighter jets placed on high readiness at Paphos airbase.
The UK defence ministry said Royal Air Force F-35 jets, believed to be operating from Cyprus, shot down drones in Jordanian airspace on Tuesday in defence of British and allied interests. Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the deployment of the destroyer HMS Dragon and Wildcat helicopters to protect British bases on the island, while stressing that US forces are not using those facilities.
Flight cancellations at Larnaca Airport
Air travel disruptions continued, with airport operator Hermes reporting 24 arrivals and departures at Larnaca Airport being cancelled on Wednesday, as airlines including British Airways, Lufthansa, EasyJet and Austrian Airlines suspended services to and from Cyprus. Passengers were advised to contact airlines or travel agents before heading to the airport.
How are the travel disruptions affecting your plans to fly to or from Cyprus?
