UK Deploys 700 Troops to Cyprus for Potential Lebanon Evacuation
Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced Tuesday that 700 British troops are being sent to bases in Cyprus in preparation for a possible evacuation of British nationals from Lebanon due to escalating tensions in the region.
During his flight to New York for the 79th UN General Assembly session, Starmer reiterated the government’s urgent call for British citizens to leave Lebanon, expressing alarm over the worsening situation. He confirmed that emergency evacuation plans are being accelerated.
Emphasizing the need for a cease-fire, Starmer urged Israel and Lebanon to avoid further escalation. Currently, two British warships are stationed off southern Cyprus, ready to assist if an evacuation is ordered. Additionally, Royal Air Force aircraft and helicopters are on standby.
The UK operates two strategic military bases in Cyprus, Akrotiri and Dhekelia, which are playing a crucial role in these preparations.
The urgency follows waves of Israeli airstrikes on Lebanon targeting Hezbollah, resulting in over 560 deaths, including 95 women and 50 children, and 1,835 injuries, according to Lebanon’s Health Minister Firas Abiad.
