Australia has commenced the evacuation of its citizens from Lebanon using Cyprus as a transit point, in response to the ongoing conflict involving Israeli forces and Hezbollah. On Saturday, approximately 229 people arrived at Larnaca airport on a chartered commercial flight arranged by the Australian government. A second flight is expected later in the day, with additional flights anticipated based on demand, according to officials from both Australia and Cyprus.
Upon arrival in Cyprus, evacuees were welcomed at the airport, where they received assistance from Australian military personnel. Families, including children who were seen enjoying provided snacks, were escorted onto buses for onward transportation.
Fiona McKergow, Australia’s High Commissioner to Cyprus, described the mood of the evacuees as a mix of exhaustion and relief, noting their happiness to be safe, yet sorrowful for the family members they left behind.
In light of Israel’s recent intensified military operations against Hezbollah, other nations, including China, Greece, and Portugal, have also utilized Cyprus for their evacuations. The U.S. and the U.K. are ready to assist with military evacuations if needed. This situation echoes the events of 2006, when a significant evacuation effort from Lebanon resulted in nearly 60,000 people being brought to safety via Cyprus.
Some evacuees expressed a deep sense of loss regarding their homeland. Dana Hameh, a 34-year-old mother, stated she would never return to Lebanon due to safety concerns, despite her sadness about leaving her country behind. She expressed hope for a new beginning in Sydney, wishing well for all those affected by the conflict.