Local media sources reported that the United Nations began relocating its staff from Lebanon to Jordan as a precautionary measure amid fears of a potential war between Lebanon and Israel. The employees were informed that the relocation would last for one week until the situation clarifies.
In parallel, Swiss Airlines announced on Monday the suspension of its flights to Beirut until October 28th "due to the situation in the Middle East and tensions along the border between Israel and Lebanon," according to the company's statement. The Swiss company stated, "After a thorough review of the situation in Lebanon, we decided to suspend round trips between Switzerland and Beirut, given the current inability to rule out an escalation of the conflict." As a result of this decision, four flights between Zurich and the Lebanese capital were canceled.
The company indicated that it has called in experts to assess the risks and that the resumption of flights between Zurich and Beirut will depend on "geopolitical developments."
Additionally, the Canadian Foreign Minister advised citizens in Lebanon to leave the country while maintaining daily flights. Although it was considered a routine measure at the end of the tourism season, reports indicated that Middle East Airlines decided to relocate several of its aircraft to Turkey and Cyprus out of concern for possible Israeli airstrikes targeting the airport if the war expands.
