Travel expert Simon Calder has shared his insights on whether it’s currently safe to visit Cyprus as tensions between Iran and Israel continue to escalate. Mr Calder said that he has been inundated with messages from concerned holidaymakers who have upcoming trips to Cyprus and are now weighing up whether to travel.
The UK Foreign Office updated its travel guidance for the Mediterranean island country on June 13, adding a warning to the “safety and security” section. The FCDO noted that the conflict between Israel and Iran could escalate rapidly and potentially affect the broader region. Travellers are advised to stay informed through local and international media, remain vigilant and follow local authorities’ instructions.
Despite the warning, Mr Calder reassured travellers that Cyprus remains a safe destination.
“In terms of the Middle East conflicts I’ve observed over several decades, I wouldn’t hesitate to travel to Cyprus tomorrow,” he told The Independent.
He added that the broader Eastern Mediterranean region, including Turkey and Greece, currently also appears stable: “I’ve spoken to people on the ground, and they say it feels like a perfectly normal time to be there.”
Speaking outside the High Commission of the Republic of Cyprus and the Consulate-General in London, Mr Calder also addressed the recent evacuation of British nationals from Israel.
On Monday (June 23), the RAF flew 63 British citizens out of Tel Aviv as hostilities between Israel and Iran continued. Foreign Secretary David Lammy told the Commons that the evacuees were taken to Cyprus aboard an RAF A400 transport aircraft and later flown back to the UK. He confirmed that additional evacuation flights are planned.
The UK Foreign Office has advised against all travel to Israel amid the ongoing conflict with Iran.