NICOSIA, Cyprus (AP) — The United Nations’ refugee agency said Friday that Cypriot efforts at sea to stop numerous Syrian refugee-laden boats departing Lebanon from reaching the European Union-member island nation mustn’t contravene international human rights laws or put passengers at risk.
Cypriot authorities have reportedly dispatched police patrol vessels just outside Lebanese territorial waters to thwart boat loads of Syrian refugees from reaching the island about 110 miles (180 kilometers) away.
The Cypriot government says a crumbling Lebanese economy coupled with the uncertainty brought on by the Israeli-Hamas war and the recent tit-for-tat strikes between Israel and Lebanon has resulted in a huge number of rickety boats overloaded with migrants – almost all Syrians – reaching the island.
Earlier this week, Cypriot patrol craft reportedly intercepted five boats carrying hundreds of Syrian refugees and migrants. The boats turned back and the passengers disembarked safely.
Indianapolis official La Keisha Jackson to fill role of late state Sen. Jean Breaux
Temporary Teaching Sites Start Classes in Jishishan
China calls for implementation of Security Council resolution on Gaza cease
China Adds 2 Golds in Short Track Speed Skating at Gangwon 2024
Man United overhaul under Ratcliffe extends to new technical director
Gains Made in Reducing School Stress
Economic Keywords at 2024 'Two Sessions'
Sheep Breeding Cooperatives Boost Incomes of Xizang Herders
Taylor Swift channels her bridal Grammy look in Fortnight video teaser
Rare, Endangered Plants Reintroduced into China's Three Gorges Reservoir Area
American Express profits jump 34%, helped by jump in new customers, higher spending
Chinese premier holds talks with Dominican PM