New Delhi: The United States and the United Kingdom have urged their citizens to leave Lebanon immediately, citing fears of an escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah that could spiral into a broader regional war. Both nations emphasized the urgency of departing the country as tensions in the Middle East continue to rise.US embassys directiveThe US Embassy in Beirut issued a statement urging American citizens to secure any available flight out of Lebanon, despite some airlines suspending or canceling services. Several airlines have suspended or canceled flights, and many flights have sold out however, commercial transportation options to leave Lebanon remain available, the US Embassy noted, according to AFP. They strongly encouraged those wishing to leave to book any available ticket, regardless of immediate departure or preferred routing.U.S. Embassy Beirut notes several airlines have suspended or cancelled flights, and many flights have sold out however, commercial transportation options to leave Lebanon remain available. We encourage those who wish to depart Lebanon to book any ticket available to them, even…— U.S. Embassy Beirut (@usembassybeirut) August 3, 2024UKs call for immediate departureIn parallel, the UK government has instructed all British nationals in Lebanon to leave as soon as possible. British Foreign Minister David Lammy stressed the urgency of the situation, warning that tensions are high, and the situation could deteriorate rapidly. He assured that efforts are being made to bolster consular support but urged citizens to leave immediately.Global concerns amid escalating tensionsBeyond the US and UK, several other countries have also issued advisories urging their citizens to evacuate Lebanon at the earliest opportunity. The already fraught situation in the Middle East, exacerbated by the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza since October 7 of the previous year, has been further inflamed by the recent assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh and a senior Hezbollah figure.These developments have heightened fears that the ongoing 10-month conflict in Gaza could escalate into a wider Middle Eastern war, with potential ramifications across the region.
