Apostolos Tomaras
Nicosia's initiative, since the beginning of the war in neighboring Israel, appears to be taking shape as Cyprus emerges as a humanitarian bridge for the suffering Palestinian people. After several months, the first ship carrying aid seems poised to set sail in the next 24 hours, with the possibility of the departure taking place in the presence of Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who arrives in Cyprus tonight.
The presence of the European official, according to Cypriot sources, demonstrates the strong support of the EU and the US for the Cypriot initiative, which, under the circumstances, is the most effective method of aiding the Palestinians. The President of the Commission will be briefed by the President of the Republic, Nicos Christodoulides, on the Amalthea project and the aid it will carry. The opening of a humanitarian corridor to Gaza via Cyprus seems to have been made possible by obtaining the green light from Israel. The fluidity of the entire situation is corroborated by a Reuters report, which takes for granted that the Cyprus-Gaza humanitarian corridor will be opened shortly.
In Nicosia, there has been no discernible reaction from the government, apparently for security reasons. According to plans, the ship will depart from the port of Larnaca and will carry essentials as well as food. Government sources do not specify the technical issues of sending and distributing aid to the Palestinians, which is expected to be clarified in the coming days. The aid mission is being coordinated by the United Arab Emirates.
[This article was translated from its Greek original and may have been edited for brevity and clarity]
