A repatriation flight from Dubai carrying 149 passengers arrived in Cyprus on Wednesday night, marking a significant milestone as the total number of evacuees from the Middle East reached 1,181. This operation was part of the Cypriot government’s response to the escalating regional conflict.
- Officials stated, "The ministry and diplomatic missions will continue to provide assistance to Cyprus citizens remaining in the area," ensuring that help is available for those who may still need it.
The Cyprus Airways flight was the last in a series of emergency charter flights coordinated by the foreign ministry. Over the past week, officials arranged eight flights to ensure safe passage for Cypriots, permanent residents, and EU citizens stranded in conflict-affected areas.
According to a statement from the ministry, “Over the past week the national crisis management centre, in cooperation with diplomatic missions, coordinated eight chartered flights with 1,181 people who departed from the crisis area.” This initiative highlights the government’s commitment to assist its citizens during turbulent times.
The repatriated individuals included not only Cypriots but also citizens from other EU countries who sought safety amid the escalating crisis. On Tuesday, another aircraft arrived at Larnaca airport from Dammam, Saudi Arabia, bringing 82 passengers, many of whom were stranded in various Gulf states, including Kuwait, Bahrain, and Qatar.
Cyprus has a significant expatriate community in the Gulf, particularly in the United Arab Emirates, where thousands of Cypriots live and work. Following the outbreak of hostilities, more than 2,000 Cypriots registered for assistance through the Connect2CY system in the UAE. However, officials believe the actual number of Cypriots in the region may be even higher.
The conflict involving Israel, the United States, and Iran has disrupted regional airspace and commercial flight schedules, heightening the urgency for repatriation efforts. While the current charter programme has concluded, the foreign ministry assured that support would continue for Cypriots still in the region.
Officials stated, “The ministry and diplomatic missions will continue to provide assistance to Cyprus citizens remaining in the area,” ensuring that help is available for those who may still need it.
