Countries Mobilize for Evacuations from Lebanon
As tensions escalate in Lebanon due to ongoing conflicts between Israel and Hezbollah, various countries have initiated evacuation plans for their citizens. While no large-scale military evacuations have occurred yet, numerous nations are organizing charter flights and other means of transport to ensure the safe departure of their nationals.
U.S. and European Efforts
The United States has dispatched troops to Cyprus to facilitate potential evacuations and is coordinating with airlines to increase flight availability for Americans in Lebanon. Meanwhile, the United Kingdom has already evacuated over 150 citizens on charter flights and is urging its nationals to leave immediately, reinforcing its military presence in the region with additional troops.
Germany has successfully evacuated 219 citizens while continuing to assist vulnerable individuals. France, although not yet executing an evacuation, has warships in the region and is prepared to act if necessary. Italy has reduced its embassy staff and advised its citizens to leave Lebanon as soon as possible.
Global Response and Coordination
The Dutch government has arranged military flights for its citizens, while Canada collaborates with Australia to evacuate individuals by sea. Australia has provided hundreds of flight seats and has military planes on standby. Spain plans to send military aircraft to evacuate up to 350 Spaniards, and Brazil has already initiated flights for its nationals, with a dedicated Air Force plane making regular trips.
Countries like China and Japan have also begun their evacuation processes, with Japan deploying military transport planes for its citizens. South Korea successfully evacuated 97 nationals, and Turkey is preparing for a potential evacuation by air and sea.
Continued Efforts by Other Nations
Several other countries, including Russia, Cyprus, Greece, and Poland, have executed or planned evacuations for their citizens. Cyprus has successfully evacuated 38 nationals, while Greece has taken steps to assist its citizens as well. Romania and Slovakia are also coordinating military flights to ensure their nationals can leave safely.
As the situation continues to evolve, citizens are urged to stay informed and follow their respective governments' guidance regarding travel and safety in Lebanon.
