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.
2 suspects detained in Poland for attack on a Navalny ally in Lithuania
The US attempts a new military deal with Niger in a last ditch effort to stay
Atlanta or Afghanistan? Wild shootout breaks out at gas station with one gunman wielding an AK
Angel Reese gushes over Caitlin Clark as she put rivalries aside at last week's WNBA Draft
The 20 best shows to watch On Demand this weekend
Jimmy Carr sparks speculation he may have become a father for the second time
Bitcoin halving: Everything you need to know
EPA designates 2 forever chemicals as hazardous substances, eligible for Superfund cleanup
American Express profits jump 34%, helped by jump in new customers, higher spending
Beijing Half Marathon champion has medal taken away after other runners slowed down to let him win
For the world's largest democratic exercise, one village's polling officers are all women
Gay 30 Rock actor Maulik Pancholy is canceled from anti