Washington DC, United States: Due to the unpredictable security situation in Lebanon, the travel advisory for Lebanon has been changed by the US Embassy in Beirut.
According to the Embassy, the travel advisory has leveled up to Level 4: Do Not Travel. In addition to this, the Embassy has issued necessary instructions and guidelines for the personnel and US citizens to avoid any hassle. However, it has outlined that the office of the US Embassy in Lebanon will be open for business.
In this regard, the website of the US Embassy informed, “Due to the unpredictable security situation in Lebanon, the Department of State has authorized the voluntary departure of family members of US government personnel and some non-emergency personnel on a case-by-case basis from US Embassy Beirut.”
This information was shared by the Embassy through its official handle on X, formerly known as Twitter. The post covered all the important information that should be known by the general public.
In conclusion, the officials of the Embassy shared the emergency contact number and email. “US citizens who need assistance should contact the US Embassy in Beirut at BeirutACS@state.gov or +961-4-543-600,” the post on X informed.
The advisory has furthermore outlined that the Department of State has asked the citizens and residents of the United States not to travel to Lebanon. It further outlined that the citizens are urged to make proper arrangements to level the country as few commercial options will remain available.
The US Embassy advisory read, “We recommend that US citizens who choose not to depart prepare contingency plans for emergency situations.”
Along with this, the US Embassy in Lebanon has also shared some actions which should be followed. Read the actions below:
- The Departure plan must not rely on the government of the United States.
- Make sure that the travel documents of you and your family are ready and are all set to travel.
- Personal security plans must be reviewed.
- Mobile phones must be charged for the situation of emergency.
- Proper caution must be exercised.
- Closely monitor the news related to the breaking developments that could affect internal security.
- Review the Traveler’s Checklist and have a contingency plan in case of any emergency.
It is to be noted that these travel advisories have been shared in the public domain in the midst of the Israel-Hamas war. The situation in the region has already become dramatic following the rocket attack on the Gaza City Hospital. This bombardment has killed hundreds of the people of Palestinians.
None of the authorities has taken charge of the attack and it is still unclear who launched the attack. The Israeli government has blamed the Palestinian militant group for the bombing, whereas Hamas has pointed fingers at the Defense Forces of Israel.
On Tuesday, the US Embassy in Lebanon was stormed by the protestors. Following the protest, social media is flooded with the comments of the general public, who is praying for the betterment of the situation in the region.
One of the X users, named Claire, noted, “My heart goes out to the Lebanese people who only want peace, harmony and freedom from violence. Beirut is one of my fave cities on earth.” Yet another user, named Laura, commented, “I pray for everyone in Beirut.
I pray all are safe. God, Be with us now more than ever. Amen.”