In a successful repatriation effort, a C-130 aircraft of the Greek Air Force returned to Greece on Thursday afternoon, bringing back 60 people stranded in Lebanon. The operation, coordinated by the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs, involved both Greek and Cypriot citizens who had been unable to leave Lebanon due to full flights in the Middle East.
The C-130 departed from Beirut earlier in the day and made a stop in Larnaca, Cyprus, before continuing to Greece. The aircraft carried 22 Greek citizens and 38 citizens of the Republic of Cyprus, arriving at the Elefsina Air Base at around 16:00 local time.
'Imprisoned' by the Lack of Flights
One of the Greek citizens onboard described the difficulties they faced trying to leave Lebanon, saying, "We were 'imprisoned'; there was no other way to leave because the planes in the Middle East are full, and you can't find a flight in less than 10 days." The passenger, who was travelling with their daughter who is starting her studies in Cyprus, expressed relief at finally being able to leave Lebanon, where the situation was becoming increasingly unstable.
"Every day the situation gets worse, and we don't know what will happen tomorrow, whether the airport will be closed or not," the passenger added, thanking the Greek government for organising the swift repatriation.
Consular Assistance in Lebanon
Despite the successful operation, the Greek Embassy in Beirut remains on high alert, ready to provide further consular support to Greek nationals still residing in Lebanon. As the situation in the region continues to deteriorate, the embassy is prepared to assist anyone in need of urgent help.
Emotional Return
Upon landing, the relief among those repatriated was palpable. Video footage captured the moment the passengers disembarked the aircraft, with many clapping and expressing their gratitude for the operation.
The arrival at Elefsina Air Base was overseen by the Chief of General Staff, General Dimitrios Houpis, underscoring the importance of the mission.
A Lifeline Amid Uncertainty
This repatriation marks the first in what could be a series of operations to evacuate citizens from the region, should the situation worsen. The Greek government’s swift action to bring home those stranded has been praised by both the repatriated citizens and their families, who were anxious for their safe return.
As the situation in Lebanon remains unpredictable, both Greece and Cyprus are likely to continue monitoring the situation closely and may launch further operations if necessary.
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