The United States and United Kingdom have issued urgent warnings to their citizens in Lebanon, advising them to leave the country immediately due to escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah. Both governments cite fears of a potential full-scale war and broader regional conflict as the primary reasons for their advisories.The US Embassy in Beirut stated, “We encourage those who wish to depart Lebanon to book any ticket available to them, even if that flight does not depart immediately or does not follow their first-choice route”. Despite some flight suspensions and cancellations, the embassy emphasized that commercial transportation options remain available.British Foreign Secretary David Lammy echoed these concerns, stating, “The situation is tense, and it could quickly deteriorate. My message to British citizens is clear: leave now”. The UK government is advising its citizens to depart while commercial flights are still operating.For US citizens who cannot afford to purchase tickets, the embassy is offering financial assistance through repatriation loans. However, the embassy has warned against relying on the US government for assisted departure or evacuation in case of a crisis, as such assistance is rare and may require reimbursement.Citizens who choose to remain in Lebanon are advised to prepare emergency plans and be ready to shelter in place for an extended period. The embassy stated, “Leave immediately or prepare emergency plans”.The heightened tensions follow recent events in the region, including the assassination of a Hamas leader attributed to Israel and the death of a high-ranking Hezbollah official in an Israeli attack. Iran, Hamas, and Hezbollah have vowed to avenge these incidents, further escalating the situation.In response to the growing instability, several countries have taken additional measures. Sweden has closed its embassy in Beirut and advised its citizens to leave the country, while France has urged its citizens visiting Iran to depart as soon as possible.
Key points
- US and UK governments urge citizens to leave Lebanon immediately due to escalating tensions.
- Commercial flights are still available, but citizens are advised to book any available ticket, even if not ideal.
- US Embassy offering repatriation loans for those who cannot afford to leave.
- Those staying in Lebanon are advised to prepare emergency plans and be ready to shelter in place.
