Belgium Deploys Soldiers to Cyprus for the Evacuation of Its Citizens from Lebanon

In response to fears of further escalation in the Middle East following Israel's invasion of southern Lebanon, the Federal Government of Belgium has decided to send soldiers to Cyprus to assist in repatriating its citizens from Lebanon.

Belgian Defense Minister Ludivine Dedonder stated that Cyprus, situated close to the conflict zone, is an ideal location for evacuating Belgian nationals who wish to leave Lebanon. The plan involves transporting Belgians from Lebanon to Cyprus, from where they will return to their homeland.

According to the minister, no military operations are currently planned. Commercial flights from Lebanon remain operational, and Belgium's Ministry of Defense is awaiting clearance from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to initiate the military operation.

Approximately 1,800 Belgian citizens are still in Lebanon, with 90 of them having requested repatriation through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Belgian Embassy in Lebanon is working to ascertain how many more citizens wish to return home.

Previously, the United States and the United Kingdom also sent troops to Cyprus to evacuate their citizens from Lebanon following the escalation of conflict in the region.