UK deploys 700 troops to Cyprus ready to evacuate Britons from Lebanon

Department of Strategic Security and Military Research and Studies 25-09-2024

The UK has deployed 700 troops to Cyprus in preparation for a potential evacuation of British citizens from Lebanon, amid ongoing Israeli airstrikes in the region. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has strongly advised UK nationals remaining in Lebanon to leave the country immediately.

In a government statement, it was confirmed that military teams have been stationed in Cyprus to enhance support for British citizens in Lebanon, where the southern areas are facing heavy bombardment by Israel. Additionally, the Royal Air Force has aircraft and helicopters on standby, ready to assist if the situation demands.

This move is part of the first stage of contingency planning for Lebanon, as the UK aims to avoid the disorganization experienced during the evacuation of British citizens from Afghanistan in 2021. Military personnel will be assisted by officials from the Border Force and the Foreign Office.

Keir Starmer emphasized that the UK is intensifying efforts to ensure the safety of its citizens in Lebanon, calling on both Israel and Lebanon to de-escalate tensions and avoid further conflict. Speaking en route to New York for the United Nations General Assembly, Starmer reiterated the urgent message for British nationals to leave Lebanon: “It is crucial that we are clear—now is the time to leave.” He also called for a ceasefire and urged both sides to “pull back from the brink.”

The health ministry in Lebanon reported that at least 569 people have been killed and 1,645 injured following the Israeli airstrikes. The death toll, which includes 50 children and 94 women, is the highest the country has experienced since the civil war that ended in 1990.

In addition to the troops, the UK already has a strong military presence at RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus, supported by the Royal Navy vessels RFA Mounts Bay and HMS Duncan. The UK Defence Secretary, John Healey, cut short his attendance at the Labour conference to hold an emergency meeting with ministers, intelligence officials, and diplomats to review the government’s preparedness.

Meanwhile, in New York, US President Joe Biden addressed the UN General Assembly, stressing that a full-scale war is not in anyone’s interest and that diplomatic solutions remain possible despite the escalating tensions. UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned that Lebanon could become a second Gaza, describing the situation as a “non-stop nightmare” threatening the entire region.

Josep Borrell, the EU’s chief diplomat, also voiced concerns, stating that the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah is nearing the scale of a “full-fledged war.” As world leaders gathered for the 79th UN General Assembly, efforts to reduce tensions and halt the violence between Israel and Lebanon have so far made little progress.