Dozens of US troops have been deployed to Cyprus amid sharply escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, and they are preparing for a range of contingencies including a possible evacuation operation from Lebanon for US citizens should a full-blown war erupt,

The Cyprus problem and the Middle East were on the agenda of a meeting on Wednesday between President Nikos Christodoulides and Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' Al Sudani in New York. Ways to enhance bilateral relations were also discussed,

As tensions between Israel and Hezbollah escalate, the US has deployed a small number of troops to Greece-controlled Cyprus, according to US officials. The deployment comes amid growing concerns of a full-scale conflict in the region, which could necessitate the evacuation of US citizens from Lebanon.

Washington has not yet authorized an evacuation, but President Joe Biden acknowledged "all-out war is possible" as Israel mobilizes two reserve brigades amid threats of a potential ground incursion to root out Hezbollah.

In response to increasing tensions in the Middle East, the British authorities have decided to deploy approximately 700 soldiers to Cyprus. They are to assist with the potential evacuation of British nationals from Lebanon.