Cruise ships originally bound for Israel have been redirected to Cyprus, while additional flights have been coordinated to facilitate the repatriation of Israelis and assist those seeking to depart from Israel, according to statements from aviation and shipping officials.
On Sunday, one cruise ship docked at Limassol port, and a second cruise ship arrived on Monday, as confirmed by Port Manager Panayiotis Agathocleous in an interview with Cyprus’s Ant1 TV station. Agathocleous also noted that a third cruise ship was expected to arrive during the week.
“We are ready to offer all assistance,” assured Agathocleous, underscoring Cyprus’s commitment to supporting the redirected cruise ships and their passengers during this unexpected change in itinerary.
In conjunction with the cruise ship diversions, aviation officials announced the scheduling of 11 additional inbound and outbound flights to Israel on Monday. Among these flights, approximately 150 Cypriot pilgrims were slated for repatriation from Israel.
This move to divert cruise ships and organize repatriation flights highlights the dynamic and rapidly evolving situation, potentially influenced by various factors, including security concerns or operational considerations.
It’s worth noting that Cyprus has previously served as an evacuation hub for thousands of individuals seeking refuge during the conflict between Israel and Lebanon’s Hezbollah in 2006. This experience positions Cyprus as a suitable location for facilitating emergency evacuations and providing logistical support during times of regional crisis.
The decision to reroute cruise ships and arrange repatriation flights reflects the commitment of governments and authorities to ensuring the safety and well-being of their citizens and travelers amid changing circumstances and geopolitical developments. The ongoing cooperation between countries and international organizations remains crucial in addressing unexpected challenges in the realm of travel and transportation.