US Amphibious Assault Ship Docks in Cyprus Amid Middle East Tensions

A U.S. amphibious assault ship has docked in Cyprus as part of a pre-arranged visit but may assist civilians if hostilities arise in the Middle East. Cyprus has offered evacuation assistance amid increasing tensions involving Israel and Iran. The USS Wasp arrived at Limassol's southern port on August 8.

A U.S. amphibious assault ship has arrived in Cyprus for a pre-planned visit, though it could offer civilian aid if Middle East hostilities escalate, U.S. Ambassador to Cyprus Julie Fisher stated.

Cyprus, an EU member, has volunteered to help evacuate Europeans and third-country nationals, should conflicts involving Israel and Iran intensify.

"Humanitarian assistance is what we do," said government spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis. The USS Wasp docked in Limassol on August 8.