The US Department of State has raised its travel advisory for Cyprus to level 3. They are urging American citizens to rethink their travel plans to the island.
This change is due to rising tensions in the region and the chance of armed conflict. Non-essential US government staff and their families can now leave Cyprus.
The announcement also highlights major disruptions in commercial flights. This follows the hostilities between the United States and Iran that started on February 28. There was also a drone incident that hit a facility at the British Bases on March 2.
Special attention is given to the area run by Turkish Cypriot authorities. The State Department says the US Embassy in Nicosia can only help American citizens there to a limited extent.
Additionally, the US does not recognize the Unrecognized Republic of Northern Cyprus. They advise citizens to use only legal entry points in the Republic of Cyprus, like Larnaca and Paphos airports and the ports of Limassol, Larnaca, and Paphos.
Traveling through Ercan Airport or ports in the northern part of the island is not seen as legal by the Republic of Cyprus. This could lead to problems for travelers later on.
Lastly, the Department of State encourages American citizens to sign up for the STEP system. This way, they can get security updates from the Embassy and stay informed through local media.
