In response to the escalating situation in the Middle East, the German Ministry of Defence has established a headquarters in Cyprus to plan and execute potential evacuations of German citizens.

The German Army’s Special Forces (KSK, Kommando Spezialkräfte), Navy Special Forces (KSM, Kommando Spezialkräfte Marine) unit, also known as combat swimmers, and the federal police Special Forces unit, which specializes in rescuing hostages (GSG 9), have been deployed to the Mediterranean island nation. C-130H Hercules and A400Ms are now in stand-by in Cyprus, ready to take off.

Also, special Forces from the army (KSK) are now positioned in Jordan, signaling Germany’s readiness to respond swiftly to any potential crisis in the area.

According to Bild, Berlin is preparing for “all scenarios” should the conflict between the Hamas-led Palestinian resistance and Israel escalate. The German Foreign Ministry has indicated that there are still several thousand German citizens present in the Middle East, despite the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas (and, pending, Hezbollah). The deployment of troops and the establishment of a headquarters in Cyprus reflect Germany's commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens during this challenging period in the region.