There are no indications of a mass influx of Palestinian refugees to Cyprus at present, a source inside the interior ministry said on Monday.
Speaking to the Cyprus News Agency (CNA) regarding the volatile situation in the region and whether Palestinian arrivals are expected, the source said that, at least for now, the scenario is remote.
In case there will be a mass arrival of Palestinian refugees, the source said the interior ministry will activate the Naukratis plan, aimed at helping individuals seeking protection due to having been forced to leave their homes owing to armed conflict and generalised violence.
“However, if they come without seeking asylum, they will be granted a status of political protection, similar to what was done for Ukrainians,” the source said “This applies to Israelis and Palestinians alike.”
Moreover, concerning Israelis, the same source stated that the interior ministry does not possess information on Israelis coming to Cyprus, explaining that the data is held by the Coast Guard since Israelis do not require entry permits.
“They are considered transit passengers and, thus, remain on ships or planes and simply transit,” the source said.
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