Britain is deploying troops to Cyprus to assist its citizens in evacuating from Lebanon, as Prime Minister Keir Starmer cautioned that the intensifying conflict between Israel and Hezbollah is pushing the region to a critical point.

In a statement released late Tuesday, the government announced that 700 troops would be sent to Cyprus, enhancing its existing military presence, which includes two Royal Navy ships, aircraft, and transport helicopters.

“Recent developments have highlighted the precarious nature of this situation, which is why we strongly advise British nationals to leave immediately,” stated Defence Secretary John Healey.

“Our government is taking all necessary measures to ensure support for British nationals in the event of further escalation.”

The ongoing fierce clashes between Israel and the Iran-aligned Lebanese Hezbollah have raised concerns that nearly a year of conflict could spiral out of control, further destabilizing the Middle East, where a separate war between Hamas and Israel is already ongoing in Gaza.

Starmer expressed significant concern regarding the escalating situation in the region. “All parties must step back from the edge,” he stated during an interview with LBC radio. “I will be traveling to New York for the UN General Assembly to engage with colleagues and allies, and my primary message will be one of ceasefire. It is crucial to de-escalate the situation.”

According to Health Minister Firass Abiad, Israel’s military actions since Monday morning have resulted in the deaths of 569 individuals, including 50 children, and left 1,835 injured in Lebanon. Thousands of displaced residents from southern Lebanon are currently seeking refuge in schools and other facilities.

Israel has indicated a shift in focus from Gaza to its northern border, where Hezbollah has been launching rockets into Israel in support of Hamas, which also receives backing from Iran.