The State Department last night offered assistance to U.S. citizens looking to leave Lebanon, warning that citizens who remain in the country should be ready to shelter in place for an extended period of time.
The department said on its website that it “strongly encourages” Americans in southern Lebanon, near the borders with Syria or in refugee settlements to leave immediately.
“We continue to advise that U.S. citizens depart Lebanon due to the unpredictable nature of ongoing conflict between Hizballah and Israel and recent explosions throughout Lebanon, including Beirut,” a State Department advisory read.
Commercial flights are currently available, though at reduced capacity, the department said. It said it is currently only able to help U.S. citizens and their immediate family (spouses, children under 21 years old and parents) who have valid travel documents “for onward travel from Turkey or Cyprus.”
An online form allows citizens to request help with a U.S. government loan to buy a commercial plane ticket, or for help with a U.S. passport or visa for an accompanying spouse or minor child.
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