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Authorities evacuated Paphos International Airport and closed the airspace above the facility Monday after receiving information about a possible incoming drone, as security measures expanded across parts of Cyprus amid rising regional tensions.
The evacuation was ordered by the government after reports that an unmanned aerial vehicle was heading toward the wider Paphos area. According to airport operator Hermes Airports, it remained unclear whether the suspected drone was approaching the civilian airport itself or the nearby “Andreas Papandreou” air base.
Authorities announced the suspension of visits to Kourion, the Sanctuary of Apollo Hylates, Kolossi Castle and the local archaeological museum of Episkopi.
No strike or explosion had been confirmed as of early afternoon, and officials described the measures as precautionary while security services assessed the situation.
At the same time, several archaeological sites in the Limassol district were temporarily closed as a safety measure. Authorities announced the suspension of visits to Kourion, the Sanctuary of Apollo Hylates, Kolossi Castle and the local archaeological museum of Episkopi.
The U.S. Embassy in Nicosia issued a security alert warning of a possible drone threat in the Paphos region and urged American citizens across Cyprus to remain vigilant.
Cyprus: There is information about a possible drone threat to Paphos region. Do not come to the Embassy unless of an emergency. The U.S. Embassy in Nicosia urges U.S. citizens in Cyprus to stay alert and safe.
— TravelGov (@TravelGov) March 2, 2026
Full alert: https://t.co/tR3lAocv11 pic.twitter.com/mrlcwyyOBs
The embassy advised residents to seek immediate shelter if sirens sound or an explosion is heard, recommending people move to the lowest level of a building away from windows and exterior walls. Those outdoors were instructed to find sturdy shelter or lie down and protect their heads if no cover is available.
Officials also warned that even if a drone or missile is intercepted, falling debris can pose a serious danger and urged the public to avoid approaching wreckage and to follow official updates through trusted news sources.
The embassy further advised avoiding areas near military installations, government buildings, or other potential targets and limiting unnecessary movement during active alarms.
The heightened precautions come days after a drone strike hit the runway area of the British RAF Akrotiri base near Limassol, underscoring Cyprus’ proximity to the escalating conflict in the Middle East.
Cypriot authorities have called for calm, stressing that the evacuation and closures are preventive actions taken to ensure public safety while the situation remains under evaluation.
The situation is developing, with further updates expected as security agencies continue monitoring the reported threat.
