In a sign of escalating concerns over potential regional conflict, multiple countries are now urgently calling for their citizens to leave Lebanon immediately. The calls come as flight prices surge, creating a tense situation for those trying to depart.
The UK, US, Australia, France, Canada, Japan, Jordan, South Korea, and Saudi Arabia have all recommended that their nationals vacate the country as soon as possible, as reported by Sky News.
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy issued a stark warning on Saturday: "Tensions are high, and the situation could deteriorate rapidly. While we are working round the clock to strengthen our consular presence in Lebanon, my message to British nationals there is clear - leave now."
France followed suit, warning its citizens of the "highly volatile" situation in the area. The US embassy in Lebanon urged its nationals to leave on "any ticket available."
The urgency of these warnings is reflected in the air travel situation. Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport, Lebanon's only commercial airport, has seen several departure flights cancelled or postponed, with many chaotic scenes as panicked travellers flood the airport. Adding to the pressure, the cost of a flight to London has doubled over the weekend.
These developments come amid growing fears of a wider Middle East conflict. The rapid increase in flight prices and the cancellation of flights are creating additional challenges for those attempting to follow their governments' advice to leave.
