After the assassination of Hamas Chief Ismail Haniya and earlier Hezbollah’s top commander in Tehran, Israel has increased the security of its diplomatic missions around the world. In view of the recent increasing tension between Lebanon and Israel, many countries have issued advisories for their citizens living in Lebanon. In this, citizens have been asked to return as soon as possible and those planning to go there have been asked to postpone their travel.
The countries issuing advisories include Australia, Britain and America. Apart from this, India had also issued an advisory for its citizens a few days ago. An advisory issued by Australia on 31 July said, “We continue to advise that Australians do not travel to Lebanon due to the unstable security situation and the risk of further deterioration in the security situation. Australians in Lebanon should immediately quarantine themselves. “Should we evacuate, commercial flights are available. The security situation in Lebanon could deteriorate rapidly with little or no notice.”
The advisory further said, “Some airlines have postponed or canceled some flights. Further flights may be canceled and disrupted with little or no notice. Beirut Airport may be closed, and you may be stranded for a long time.” Airlines may cancel more flights or set higher ticket prices for any remaining flights. The Australian government may not be able to assist you in such circumstances. Might be possible.”
The Australian Government’s preventive travel advisory is in effect from 19 October 2023. At the time it was issued, armed conflict was escalating in southern Lebanon.
Britain also issued advisory
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) issued its advisory against all travel to Lebanon due to the risks associated with the ongoing conflict between Israel, Lebanese Hezbollah and other non-state organizations in the Middle Eastern state. FCDO officials said mortar and artillery exchanges and air strikes were ongoing in Lebanon, mainly along the border with Israel but also in parts of the Bekaa Valley and some other locations north of the Litani River.
American Embassy also issued a warning
In an advisory issued on July 28, the US Embassy in Lebanon drew the attention of its citizens in the region to the fact that some airlines are adjusting their flight schedules in the country. Middle East Airlines (MEA) announced that several flights that were scheduled to land in Beirut on the evening of the 28th landed on the morning of the 29th. Other airlines flying into Beirut also made adjustments to their respective flight schedules in view of the increased tensions at the border. American citizens traveling to and from Lebanon were also asked to closely monitor their flight status.
India had also issued advisory
The Indian Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon on Monday advised Indian citizens in the country to exercise caution and stay in touch with the embassy. The Embassy has issued an emergency phone number and an email ID for Indian citizens in Lebanon. And they have been advised to stay in touch with the embassy. The Indian Embassy issued an advisory saying that in view of the recent developments in the region, all Indian citizens living in Lebanon and those planning to travel to Lebanon are advised to exercise caution and use their email ID cons.beirut@mea. Get in touch with the Embassy of India in Beirut through .gov.in or emergency phone number +96176860128.