UK Sends Troops To Cyprus, Anticipate Mass Evacuation In Lebanon

British Military/PHOTO via Instagram @britisharmy

JAKARTA - Britain moved troops to Cyprus to help its citizens leave Lebanon.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer warned of an increase in fighting between Israel and Hezbollah pushing the region into the brink of destruction.

The British government said 700 troops would travel to Cyprus, strengthening its presence in areas already owned by two Royal Navy vessels, aircraft, and transport helicopters.

"The events in the last few hours and days have shown how uncertain this situation is, which is why our message is clear, British nationals must leave now," said British Defense Secretary John Healey.

"Our government ensures that all preparations have been made to support British citizens if the situation worsens," he added.

Heavy fighting this week between Iran-backed Israel and Hezbollah has raised concerns that the conflict, which has been going on for nearly a year, will explode and disrupt Middle East stability, a warbed between Hamas and Israel, is already raging in Gaza.

Starmer said he was very worried that the area would get out of control. "All parties have to withdraw from the ravine," he said in an interview with LBC radio.

"I will obviously go to New York to attend the UN General Assembly to talk to my colleagues and allies, but my message is a ceasefire. Step back from the brink. Reduce the tension of the situation," added Starmer.

Israel's attacks since Monday, September 23, killed 569 people, including 50 children, and injured 1,835 people in Lebanon, Health Minister Firass Abiad said.