2 weeks Ago By The Telegraph
is the closest holiday destination to the Middle East conflict zone and is central to Britain’s evacuation plans in the region, prompting questions about whether it is safe to visit the island. On October 1, Israel after months of escalating tensions in the Middle East. In response to the conflict, the British Government has sent 700 additional troops to RAF Akrotiri to assist in the evacuation of British nationals from Lebanon.
In June, the (now deceased) Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah warned that Cyprus could come under attack if it allowed Israel to use its air bases to launch attacks against Hezbollah. Nikos Christodoulides, the president of Cyprus, said the country remains neutral in the Middle East conflict. While Cyprus is geographically close to the conflict zone (145 miles or so), the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) says it remains safe to visit the island.
Here’s everything you need to know about travel to Cyprus, whether it is safe to visit, and your rights if you do decide to cancel your upcoming holiday. The resort of , on the southeastern tip of Cyprus, is only 110 miles away from Beirut and around 145 miles to the Israel-Lebanon border. By way of comparison London to Nottingham is around 110 miles and London to Sheffield is around 145 miles.
The British Government has previously used RAF Akrotiri as a staging point for launching airstrikes against Houthi rebels in Yemen, who have been targeting shipping vessels in the Red Sea. It is now being used as a strategic base to assist in the evacuation of British nationals from Lebanon. The FCDO updated its advice page to Cyprus on October 26, referencing the island’s proximity to the Middle East: “Ongoing hostilities in the region and between Israel and Lebanon could escalate quickly and pose risks for the wider region.
On 1 October, Iran launched around 200 ballistic missiles at Israel. On 26 October, Israel carried out military action against Iran. Monitor this travel advice and other media as the situation is changing fast.
” The FCDO says it is safe to travel to Cyprus. However, it does advise: “Demonstrations may occur in cities with little or no notice. Events in the Middle East have led to heightened tensions and demonstrations are likely.
Avoid any protests, political gatherings, or marches and leave the area if one develops. Local transport routes may be disrupted.” The FCDO advises: “There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets.
Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.” The FCDO adds that although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Cyprus, attacks cannot be ruled out. They also warn that attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals.
Yes, flights to Cyprus are operating as normal. If you have booked a package holiday to Cyprus and want to cancel your trip for any reason, contact your tour operator and they might offer flexibility with alternative dates. But bear in mind that, because the Foreign Office has not issued any advice against travel to Cyprus, there is no guarantee you will receive a refund, nor will you be able to claim money back with your travel insurance company.
If you have booked flights and accommodation independently, and wish to cancel your holiday, contact your travel providers as soon as possible to see if you can rearrange your plans. Note, however, that given the circumstances, it is unlikely you will receive a full refund..
