Several Western governments are recommending their people to evacuate Lebanon in light of the rising tensions between Israel and Hezbollah. This preventive action is in response to a suspected Hezbollah missile strike on a football field in the Golan Heights on Saturday that claimed the lives of twelve Druze children and youth. There are concerns about a protracted battle in the region because Israel has threatened reprisal.
Among the nations issuing urgent travel advisories are the United States, Germany, Britain, and France, who are advising their citizens to either depart Lebanon right away or not go there at all. Americans have been warned by U.S. authorities, such as Rena Bitter from the U.S. Embassy in Beirut, to prepare a crisis plan and leave as soon as possible while there are still transit alternatives available.
Germany has clearly warned its residents to escape immediately, citing the possibility of air transport suspension and increased risks if the situation worsens. Major airlines, including Lufthansa, Swiss International Air Lines, Air France, and Turkish Airlines, have already halted flights to Beirut over security concerns.
Abdullah Bou Habib, Lebanon's acting foreign minister, recognized that the government could not fully control Hezbollah but reassured that lines of contact would stay open. Uncertainty regarding the possible extent of Israel's military reaction has been heightened by Hezbollah's reports of casualties from an Israeli drone strike.
