British nationals have been told to leave Lebanon due to tensions in the Middle East. The Government says Britons should vacate the country because of ‘risks associated with the ongoing conflict between Israel, Lebanese Hizballah and other non-state actors in Lebanon’.
Officials say they continue to advise against all travel to Lebanon. People are being ‘encouraged to leave’, while commercial options remain available.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO) adds: “There are ongoing mortar and artillery exchanges and airstrikes in Lebanon, primarily on the boundary with Israel but also in parts of the Beqaa Valley and some other locations north of the Litani river. The Washington Institute’ provides an online map which may be helpful to understand recently affected areas.”
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It continues: “Following the start of the conflict in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, large protests took place in major cities and near the British and other Western embassies. Further protests cannot be ruled out. Exercise caution and avoid demonstrations.
“Tensions are high and events could escalate with little warning, which could affect or limit exit routes out of Lebanon. In the event of deterioration in the political or security situation, commercial routes out of Lebanon could be severely disrupted or cancelled at short notice, and roads across the country could be closed.
“The British embassy may be increasingly limited in the assistance that it can provide. If you are currently in Lebanon, we encourage you to leave.
“Do not rely on FCDO being able to evacuate you in an emergency. You should have a personal emergency plan that does not rely on the UK government. This may include the ability to leave quickly or to shelter in place if you judge it necessary and safe to do so.”
Officials being deployed
The Foreign Office said on X yesterday (Saturday, August 3): “British nationals in Lebanon should leave now. Border Force, consular officials and military personnel are being deployed to the Middle East to support British embassy staff.”
It added: “You should register your presence in Lebanon to get the latest information.”
The FCO says you can contact the emergency services by calling 112. Alternatively, if you need urgent help, in case of attack, arrest or someone dying, call +961 (0)1 960 800.
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