Multinational force fights stubborn wildfire in Cyprus, including Lebanon, Greece and Jordan
Officials say a multinational force is helping Cyprus fight a stubborn wildfire that has scorched miles of mountainous terrain in the summer heat NICOSIA, Cyprus -- A multinational force is helping Cyprus fight stubborn wildfires in the summer heat, with Israel joining Lebanon, Greece and Jordan in sending aircraft to fight a blaze that has scorched miles of mountainous terrain, officials said Monday. Israel said two “Air-Tractor” fire fight ing aircraft, ground crews and wildfire experts along with six tons of flame retardants were on their way to the island nation , adding to the 20 tons of material that Greece is sending. Lebanon is pitching in with a pair of helicopters, while two Greek Canadair aircraft have been dispatched to help douse the fire in the mountains about 11 miles (17 kilometers) north of the coastal town of Limassol. Jordan has sent three aircraft of its own, including two Super Puma helicopters and a Russian-made Mi26 helicopter. The multinational effort is battli...