Due to the increased volatility following airstrikes within Beirut and unpredictable security situation, the United States has called on its citizens to depart Lebanon while commercial options still remain available.
In a statement released by State Department Spokesman on travel advisory to Lebanon, stating that at this time, commercial flights are still available, but at reduced capacity, adding that if the security situation worsens, commercial options to depart may become unavailable.
Since October 8, 2023, cross-border exchanges of fire have occurred between Hizballah and Israel; in some instances, including targets well north of the border region.
On September 20, a targeted strike hit the southern suburbs of Beirut, Israel’s airstrikes on September 27 and 28 in Beirut’s southern suburbs, Lebanon’s security environment has become even more volatile and unpredictable.
The Department of State ordered the departure of non-mission-employed EFMs and authorized departure for mission- employed EFMs and non-essential USDH employees due to volatile and unpredictable security situation in Beirut.
If choose to remain in Lebanon, the United States asked its citizens be prepared to shelter in place should situation deteriorate further while strongly encourages citizens in Southern Lebanon, near the borders with Syria, and/or in refugee settlements to depart those areas immediately.
It gave sound warning to its citizens not to travel to Lebanon due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, unexploded landmines, and the risk of armed conflict. Some areas, especially near the borders, have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.
United States citizens who remain in Lebanon should be aware of the risks and review their personal security plans and should be aware that consular officers from the U.S. Embassy are not always able to travel to assist them.
It stated that the Lebanese government cannot guarantee the safety of U.S. citizens against sudden outbreaks of violence and armed conflict. “Family, neighborhood, or sectarian disputes can escalate quickly and can lead to gunfire or other violence with no warning.
“Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Lebanon. Terrorists may conduct attacks with little or no warning targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities.
“Local security authorities have noted a rise in violent crimes, including political violence. Multiple unsolved killings in Lebanon may have been politically motivated.
“Heed land mine warning signs. Do not venture off the road into areas marked off with red and white plastic tape. Avoid roadside ditches, shoulders, and unmarked trails. Never touch anything resembling unexploded munitions”.
The United States warned its citizens to avoid demonstrations and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings or protests as these have the potential to turn violent quickly and with little notice.
It said, “Protesters have blocked major roads, including thoroughfares between downtown Beirut and the area where the U.S. Embassy is located, and between Beirut and Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport”.
Meanwhile, report has it that devastating Israeli airstrikes across Beirut, Lebanon continued Saturday after the military took out longtime Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah on Friday night while the followers are now mourning his loss as the terrorist group’s future hangs in the balance.