The United States and the United Kingdom are telling their citizens to leave Lebanon as soon as they can. This advice comes because there are growing fears that a conflict between Israel and Hezbollah could turn into a larger war affecting the whole region.
According to the US Embassy in Lebanon, even though some airlines have stopped flying in and out of the country, there are still flights available. They advise American citizens to book any flight they can get, even if it’s not their first choice or doesn’t leave immediately. The embassy stresses that it’s important to leave as soon as possible to avoid any potential dangers from the worsening situation.
US and UK Urge Citizens to Leave Lebanon
The US Embassy in Lebanon has urgently advised American citizens to leave the country immediately using “any available ticket” due to escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah and the potential for a broader regional conflict.
Despite current flight suspensions and cancellations, the embassy assures that “commercial transportation options are still available.” They recommend that citizens book any available flights, even if they don’t depart right away or follow their preferred route.
For US citizens who cannot afford to return home, the embassy offers financial assistance through repatriation loans. Those choosing to stay should prepare emergency plans and be ready for a prolonged stay in Lebanon.
The embassy warns that US military-assisted evacuations are uncommon, and citizens should not rely on government help for departure. In the event of an evacuation, there may be limitations such as not being able to bring extended family or pets, and individuals may need to repay the US government for their transport.
Similarly, the UK government has urged British nationals to leave Lebanon immediately. Foreign Minister David Lammy emphasized the urgency, stating that “tensions are high and the situation could deteriorate quickly.” The UK Foreign Office is enhancing its support by deploying additional border force, consular officials, and military personnel to the region.
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Global Advisory for Citizens to Leave Lebanon
In addition to advice from the US and UK, several other countries are now urging their citizens to leave Lebanon as soon as they can. The Middle East is already tense due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, which started on October 7 of last year.
Things got worse when Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh and a high-ranking member of Hezbollah, a group based in Lebanon, were killed. These assassinations have increased fears that the conflict between Israel and Hamas, which has been going on for 10 months, might spread and become a larger conflict involving more countries in the Middle East.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q.1. Why are the US and UK advising their citizens to leave Lebanon?
Ans. The US and UK are advising their citizens to leave Lebanon due to escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah and the potential for the conflict to spread regionally.
Q.2. Are there still flights available out of Lebanon?
Ans. Yes, despite some airlines suspending flights, there are still commercial flights available. The US Embassy advises booking any available ticket as soon as possible.
Q.3. What should US citizens do if they can’t afford a flight home?
Ans. The US Embassy offers financial assistance through repatriation loans for those who cannot afford a flight back to the US.
Q.4. Can US citizens rely on government evacuation assistance?
Ans. US military-assisted evacuations are rare. Citizens should prepare for self-departure and be aware that government assistance may have limitations and potential repayment obligations.
Q.5. What is the UK government doing to support its citizens in Lebanon?
Ans. The UK government is urging British nationals to leave immediately and is enhancing support by deploying additional border force, consular officials, and military personnel to the region.
