The Australian government has tightened its warnings against travel to Lebanon, urging people to leave immediately while commercial flights are still available.
The official warning for Lebanon has been “do not travel” since October, but on Friday the Australian government warned that a return flight will soon no longer be an option.
“Australians in Lebanon should leave immediately while commercial flights are still available,” the updated advice said.
“The security situation across Lebanon could deteriorate rapidly, with little warning.”
Airlines are now canceling flights.
“Take the next available flight and do not wait for a preferred route,” the advice read.
‘Beirut airport may be closed and you may not be able to leave for an extended period of time.
“If you decide not to travel while commercial flights are operating, be prepared to stay home for an extended period of time.”
The Australian government has upgraded its warnings against travel to Lebanon, urging people to leave immediately while commercial flights are still available. Photo: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Smoke rises over Lebanon’s southern Marjayoun plain after it was hit by Israeli shelling
The situation is becoming increasingly dangerous due to air strikes, rockets and missiles.
In July, Israel carried out an attack on buildings in the Lebanese capital Beirut, killing a Hezbollah commander, a woman and two children.
Until August 25, tensions between Lebanon and the army of neighboring Israel were high.
That day, Israel launched a preemptive strike on Hezbollah positions in Lebanon, deploying 100 fighter jets to bomb thousands of Hezbollah launch pads.
At least 15 Lebanese cities were hit in the largest Israeli attack on Hezbollah since October 8, according to Al Jazeera.
Hezbollah later that morning fired 340 rockets into Israel.
“Terrorist attacks can happen anytime, anywhere, including in Beirut,” the Australian government warns.
‘If you are an Australian citizen or permanent resident of Lebanon, you can register via the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s crisis registration portal.’