Lebanon Urged to Evacuate Amid Israel-Gaza War
Several countries have urged their nationals to leave Lebanon due to rising fears of a wider conflict in the Middle East. The ongoing Israel-Gaza war has raised concerns about Lebanon's stability and safety.
Growing Tensions in Lebanon
Iran promises “severe” retaliation against Israel, blaming it for the death of Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. Israel has not commented on this incident. Haniyeh’s assassination came just hours after Israel killed Hezbollah senior commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut.
Western Concerns and Diplomacy
Western officials fear that Hezbollah, an Iran-backed militia in Lebanon, could retaliate, leading to a serious response from Israel. The US and other Western countries are working diplomatically to calm tensions across the region.
Travel and Safety Concerns
Many flights have been canceled or suspended at Beirut’s main airport. The US, UK, Australia, Sweden, France, Italy, Canada, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan have advised their citizens to leave Lebanon quickly.
Hezbollah's Actions
Hezbollah began attacking Israel the day after deadly Hamas attacks on southern Israel on October 7. This was in support of Palestinians in Gaza. Most violence has been limited to border areas. However, Hezbollah vows to respond to Shukr’s assassination in Beirut.
Recent Attacks
On Sunday, Hezbollah fired rockets at Beit Hillel in northern Israel. Israel’s Iron Dome intercepted the rockets. Israel’s air force then struck targets in southern Lebanon.
On Sunday morning, a stabbing attack in Holon, Israel killed two people. Police “neutralized” the attacker. In Gaza, an Israeli air strike hit a tent in a hospital, killing at least five people. Nineteen Palestinians died on Sunday.
US Embassy Warning
The US embassy in Beirut has warned citizens to “prepare contingency plans.” They advise being ready to “shelter in place for an extended period of time.” The Pentagon is sending more warships and fighter jets to the region to help defend Israel from possible attacks by Iran and its allies.
International Response
The UK is sending more military personnel and consular staff to help with evacuations. UK citizens have been urged to leave Lebanon while commercial flights are still available. Two British military ships are already in the region. The Royal Air Force has transport helicopters on standby. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy said the situation “could deteriorate rapidly.”
Iran’s Position
Iran’s Acting Foreign Minister Ali Baqeri Kani said Iran will "punish" Israel. Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has said Israel will face a “harsh punishment” for killing Haniyeh. Haniyeh's assassination has hurt chances for a ceasefire and hostage release in Gaza.
Background of the Conflict
The conflict began in October when Hamas attacked Israel, killing about 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages back to Gaza. Israel’s military response has killed at least 39,480 Palestinians in Gaza, according to Hamas-run health official.
FAQs
Why are countries urging their nationals to leave Lebanon? Countries urge their nationals to leave Lebanon due to rising tensions and fears of a wider conflict following recent attacks.
What is the current situation in Lebanon? Tensions are high with frequent rocket attacks and air strikes. Diplomatic efforts are ongoing to calm the situation.
What has Hezbollah’s response been? Hezbollah has launched rocket attacks in response to the assassination of a senior commander by Israel. They have vowed further responses.
What are the travel advisories? Many countries have canceled or suspended flights to Beirut. They are urging their citizens to leave Lebanon immediately.
What steps are being taken by the international community?
The US, UK, and other countries are sending military personnel and preparing for possible evacuations to ensure the safety of their citizens.
Q: What was the attendance for the match?
A: The match was attended by a sell-out crowd of 77,559 in Columbia, the highest ever for a soccer match in the Carolinas.
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