The US embassy in Beirut has issued a warning to its citizens in Lebanon, urging them to leave the country on “any ticket available” as tensions in the Middle East continue to escalate.
The advisory comes in the wake of a similar caution from UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who expressed concerns that the situation in the region “could deteriorate rapidly.”
The recent spike in tensions stems from Iran’s vow to seek “severe” retaliation against Israel for the death of Hamas chief Ismael Haniyeh in Tehran, following Israel’s killing of Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut.
There are fears that Lebanon-based Hezbollah, an Iran-backed group, could play a significant role in any potential retaliation, sparking a serious response from Israel.
In response to the escalating situation, the US embassy in Beirut has advised those who choose to remain in Lebanon to prepare contingency plans and be ready to “shelter in place for an extended period of time.”
Several airlines have suspended and canceled flights to and from Lebanon, but commercial transportation options are still available for those looking to leave the country.
The Pentagon has announced the deployment of additional warships and fighter jets to the region to help defend Israel from potential attacks by Iran and its proxies.
The UK has also pledged to send extra military personnel, consular staff, and border force officials to assist with any evacuations, urging UK citizens to leave Lebanon while commercial flights are still operating.
As tensions continue to rise, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned of “challenging days ahead” and assured that Israel is prepared for any scenario.
The situation remains fluid, with both Iran and Israel exchanging threats and warnings of potential retaliation. The international community is closely monitoring the situation as the region braces for possible further escalation.
