Foreigners advised to exit Lebanon due to security concerns

 

Several countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and France, have urged their citizens to leave Lebanon as heightened tensions in the region raise fears of a broader Middle East conflict. The warnings follow the US sending additional warships to the region and the American embassy in Lebanon advising citizens to book any available flights. The UK’s Foreign Secretary David Lammy echoed this sentiment, urging British citizens to “leave now.”

The region is on high alert after Iran vowed revenge on Israel for the assassination of Hamas’ political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, which occurred just hours after an Israeli strike in Beirut killed Hezbollah’s top military commander, Fu’ad Shukr. These events have increased concerns that Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza could escalate into a wider Middle Eastern conflict, with Lebanon-based Hezbollah likely playing a significant role in any retaliation. Over the weekend, Hezbollah fired multiple projectiles at Israel, which responded by targeting Hezbollah sites in Lebanon.

In response to the rising tensions, various countries have updated their travel advisories. France urged its citizens to leave Lebanon “as soon as possible,” and Jordan issued similar warnings. Turkey also updated its advisory, encouraging those without essential reasons to stay to leave while commercial flights remain operational. Several airlines, including Air France and Lufthansa, have already cancelled or diverted flights to and from Lebanon.

The US has bolstered its military presence in the region, sending a carrier strike group and additional warships to prepare for potential retaliation from Iran or other adversaries. White House deputy national security adviser Jon Finer emphasised that the US and Israel are preparing for “every possibility.” Additionally, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has been in discussions with G7 foreign ministers, stressing the urgent need for de-escalation and efforts to secure a ceasefire, release hostages, and allow humanitarian aid into Gaza.