The U.S. Embassy in Lebanon urged Americans to "book any available travel tickets to leave the country," noting that "many airlines have suspended or canceled flights, and many flights have sold out; however, commercial transportation options to leave Lebanon remain available." The embassy stated: "We encourage those who wish to depart Lebanon to book any ticket available to them, even if that flight does not depart immediately or does not follow the route they initially chose."
Similarly, the British government urged its citizens in Lebanon to leave the country immediately, amid fears of a potential widespread war between Israel and Hezbollah and a broader regional conflict. The British Foreign Office announced in a statement that "British nationals should leave Lebanon now while commercial options are still available."
The ministry clarified that it is "enhancing support for Britons in the country by deploying border forces, consular officials, and military personnel in the region." It mentioned that "these officials will provide additional support to embassy staff while military personnel will provide operational assistance to help British nationals."
Additionally, it noted: "This is alongside the RFA Cardigan Bay landing ship and HMS Duncan, which are already present in the Eastern Mediterranean to support allies with humanitarian needs, while the Royal Air Force is also placing transport helicopters on standby." The ministry continued: "Given the possibility of exit routes from Lebanon being affected, restricted, or closed due to the escalating events without warning, teams will continue to urge British citizens to depart as long as commercial options are available."
Foreign Secretary David Lammy stated in a message that "tensions are high and the situation is likely to deteriorate rapidly. While we are working around the clock to enhance our consular presence in Lebanon, my message to British citizens there is clear: leave immediately."
