Amidst the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, travellers considering Cyprus travel, the nearest European destination to Israel, should be mindful of recent updates to the official government travel advice.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has modified its guidance for those planning to visit the Mediterranean island. It strongly advises travellers to exercise heightened caution, particularly during their return journey.
Specifically, the official website states, ‘Due to the current situation in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, the airport operator is advising passengers flying out of Larnaca and Paphos airports to arrive at their terminals at least 3 hours before their flight’s scheduled departure time.’
This recommendation is attributed to the implementation of “additional security measures” by Hermes Airports, the operator responsible for both facilities.
Notably, Larnaca and Paphos are among the favoured destinations for British holidaymakers traveling to Cyprus.
However, no additional official guidance has been issued by the Foreign Office for individuals travelling to the island.
On average, approximately 1.3 million UK tourists visit Cyprus annually, representing the largest demographic among the four million visitors in total.
In a recent incident, on Saturday, four individuals were arrested on suspicion of triggering a small explosive device near the Israeli embassy in Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus. These suspects, aged between 17 and 21, are facing charges related to the attempted destruction of property using explosives, possession and use of explosives, as well as possession of a knife. Authorities have not confirmed whether this incident is linked to the conflict in Gaza.
Law enforcement officials reported that two of the suspects were observed near the site of the explosion, while the other two were found inside a parked car in a nearby alley. All four individuals will remain in police custody for six days, during which investigators will determine whether to file formal charges or release them.
