ALBAWABA - The US Embassy in Beirut released a warning to American citizens in Lebanon to leave the country amid fears of a war with Israel.
A video was posted on the embassy's social media account of a message from Assistant Secretary for Consular Affairs Rena Bitter who asked US citizens in Lebanon to register or enroll in programs via the embassy website to stay safe.
She said: "The US Department of State has no higher priority than the safety and security of US citizens overseas. As we continue to monitor the complex and quickly changing situation, I wanna take this opportunity about a few key points. Please enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)."
Rena Bitter also added that the US calls its citizens to develop a crisis plan of action and leave before a crisis begins. It also asked Americans in Lebanon to ensure the validity of their passports for easier and faster travel.
Nonetheless, the Assistant Secretary for Consular Affairs also revealed that if commercial flights are not available, American citizens should prepare to shelter in place for long periods of time. Finally, she also requested people aiming to visit Lebanon to think again and reconsider their decision.
Furthermore, a German Foreign Ministry spokesperson also advised German nationals to leave Lebanon urgently. Reuters reported that the Italian Minister of Foreign Affairs Antonio Tajani also called citizens in Lebanon to leave the country amid fears of an escalation between Israel and Hezbollah.
Denmark, as well, joined other countries and called its citizens to depart from Lebanon.
This comes amid rising tension between Israel and Lebanon's Hezbollah especially after the last rocket attack in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights that killed 12 children.
Today, German flag carrier Lufthansa and Swiss International Airlines announced halting all flights to Beirut-Rafic Al Hariri International Airport in Beirut until August 5th.
Despite Hezbollah's statement that it "firmly denies" it was behind the attack, which was said to be the deadliest to hit Israel or Israeli-controlled territory since the October 7 attacks, Israel vowed to strongly respond.
After the attack on Majdal Shams, Israeli jets conducted airstrikes against Hezbollah targets "deep inside Lebanese territory," CNN reported.
