The Indian Embassy in Lebanon issued an advisory on Thursday, urging its citizens in the country to refrain from travelling to Lebanon and, if possible, to depart from the country in an immediate effect. Alternatively, they should exercise caution and stay in touch with the embassy due to the escalating tensions between Israel and the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah.
This advisory was issued following the death of Hamas’ political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran, which has heightened concerns about a wider conflict in the Middle East. The consulate has advised Indian nationals to avoid ‘non-essential travel’ to Lebanon.
In an emergency alert, the embassy stated on X, “In view of recent developments and potential threats in the region, Indian nationals are strongly advised against travelling to Lebanon till further notice. 2. All Indian nationals are also strongly advised to leave Lebanon. Those who remain for any reason are advised to exercise extreme caution, restrict their movements and remain in contact with the Embassy of India in Beirut through their email id: cons.beirut@mea.gov.in or the emergency phone number +96176860128.”
Updated travel advisory for Indian Nationals. pic.twitter.com/vDTao33LnM
— India in Lebanon (@IndiaInLebanon) August 1, 2024
Violence has escalated since October 8 of the previous year along the border between Israeli forces and Hezbollah. The situation worsened last Saturday when a rocket strike by Hezbollah on a soccer field in the Golan Heights resulted in the deaths of at least 12 children and teenagers of Israel.
Israeli authorities have reported that this was the most lethal attack on an Israeli target along the northern border since the onset of hostilities with Hezbollah, sparking fears of an extensive regional war. However, Hezbollah has firmly denied involvement in the attack.
Earlier today, the embassy reiterated its caution to citizens, posting, , “In view of the recent developments in the region, all Indian nationals in Lebanon and those planning to travel to Lebanon are advised to exercise caution and remain in contact with the Embassy of India in Beirut through their email id: cons.beirut@mea.gov.in or the emergency phone number +96176860128.”
Advisory for Indian Nationals. pic.twitter.com/baGPhNpKip
— India in Lebanon (@IndiaInLebanon) July 31, 2024
Amid the chaos, Australia and Canada issued similar warnings citing that “now is the time to leave” Lebanon.
India had also issued a travel advisory on Monday, cautioning against travel to Lebanon.
Also Read: Indian Embassy in Lebanon Issues Travel Advisory Amid Israel-Hezbollah Tensions
