Middle East: What will be discussed today at the KYSEA – Evacuation plans for Greeks and the alert on migration

The escalation in the Middle East following Iran’s fierce attack on Israel and the anticipation of Israel’s response to Tehran has put Athens on high alert. The Prime Minister has urgently convened KYSEA at 4:30 PM today.

At the beginning of the meeting, updates will be provided by diplomatic sources and the National Intelligence Service (EYP) regarding the situation on the ground and what to expect going forward. Government officials acknowledge that we are entering uncharted territory, as Israel is expected to respond to Iran, with full backing from the U.S. The intensity of this response, however, remains to be seen.

A critical aspect under discussion concerns the Greek communities in Lebanon and Israel. For Lebanon, which has been under attack for several days, a plan is in place to evacuate about 3,500 Greek passport holders and around 1,000 dependents (spouses and children). The plan includes both civilian and military aircraft, and the Greek Navy frigate “ELLI,” currently refueling in Cyprus, is also in the area.

Diplomatic sources note that, as of yesterday, there have been no requests for evacuation at the Greek embassy in Beirut, and flights to and from Athens are still operating. There remains a strong advisory for Greeks in Lebanon to leave the country immediately.

Regarding Israel, the operational planning is still being finalized, as it is more likely that evacuation requests will come from Greeks in Israel, despite the protection offered by the Iron Dome defense system. Greece’s strong bilateral relationship with Israel is also a key consideration. However, officials clarify that these plans will only be activated if necessary.

Another crucial topic for discussion is the potential for increased migration flows from Lebanon. While Cyprus is the closest potential destination, it is uncertain how displaced people might move in the event of a large-scale migration. Similar preparations were made earlier in the year for potential Palestinian refugee flows at the onset of the conflict, though these did not materialize.

In any case, as sources note, the new situation developing in the region requires the Greek government to reassess all scenarios and data thoroughly.

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