US Troops Deploy to Cyprus Amid Rising Tensions Between Israel and Hezbollah
As tensions escalate between Israel and Hezbollah, the United States has deployed dozens of troops to Cyprus in preparation for potential contingencies, including an emergency evacuation operation for American citizens in Lebanon. According to two US officials speaking to CNN, this deployment reflects heightened concern over the possibility of an all-out war.
Pentagon Press Secretary Major General Pat Ryder confirmed this week that the military is sending a small number of personnel to the region but provided limited details regarding the exact number of troops or their specific assignments.
Historically, Cyprus has played a crucial role in evacuating foreign nationals during times of conflict, notably during the 2006 crisis between Israel and Hezbollah. At that time, the island facilitated the safe passage and accommodation of tens of thousands fleeing the violence. In anticipation of the current situation, Cyprus' Deputy Government Spokesperson Yiannis Antoniou has stated that the nation is ready to assist again if necessary.
In parallel, the United Kingdom announced its own contingency plans, deploying 700 troops to Cyprus to prepare for an emergency evacuation of British citizens from Lebanon. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has urged nationals in Lebanon to leave immediately, echoing warnings from the US State Department that American citizens should also depart while commercial flight options remain available.
The recent surge in hostilities began when Israel conducted covert operations that triggered Hezbollah’s communications. This led Israel to escalate its military response, resulting in extensive airstrikes on Beirut and southern Lebanon that have reportedly killed hundreds, including both civilians and fighters from Hezbollah.
In retaliation, Hezbollah has launched several rocket attacks targeting Israeli positions, including an assault on the Ramat David air base and a missile directed at Tel Aviv, which was intercepted by Israeli defense systems. In response to the rising threats, the Israel Defense Forces have announced a call-up of two reserve brigades for a potential mission in northern Israel.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has emphasized ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at preventing the outbreak of a full-scale war between Israel and Lebanon. "The risk of escalation in the region is acute, and we are all very much focused on that," he said during a meeting with Gulf Cooperation Council counterparts at the UN General Assembly.
Concerns are growing that Iran, a key supporter of Hezbollah, could become directly involved. A US official expressed that while Tehran has yet to intervene, it is likely to do so if Hezbollah appears to be losing strength in the region. The official noted, "We are the closest we’ve been to spiraling into a regional war since the Hamas attack on October 7."
As the situation continues to evolve, both the US and UK are taking proactive measures to ensure the safety of their citizens in Lebanon while monitoring the potential for wider conflict.
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