Image Credits: Sky News
British Foreign Secretary David Lammy has issued a stark warning to British nationals currently in Lebanon, calling to leave the country immediately. In a video message posted on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, Lammy highlighted the growing risks posed by rising tensions between Hezbollah and Israel.
Lammy emphasized the urgency of the situation and advised the people of the British to take advantage of available commercial flights to leave while they still could. “You should leave when the commercial flights take off,” he repeated.
The call came amid a considerable escalation of hostilities between the Shiite group of Lebanon and Israel. The border region has seen a series of violent clashes and exchanges of fire, raising fears of a wider conflict that could engulf the region. The situation has been exacerbated by recent incidents, including cross-border missile fire and counter-attacks.
Lammy’s warning reflects the British government’s growing concern about Lebanon’s volatile security environment and potential conflict management. He warned by saying that they are doing everything possible to prevent a full-scale conflict, but the risk is increasing. The foreign minister stressed that the safety of British citizens is the priority and the British government is closely monitoring the situation.
British citizens are being advised to leave Lebanon as several other countries have issued similar warnings to their citizens. The United States, Canada and several European countries have all expressed concern about the possibility of increased violence and broader regional instability.
Lebanon, which has struggled with its own internal challenges, including a severe economic crisis and political instability, now faces the pressure of heightened tensions on its southern border. The Lebanese government called for calm and restraint, urging all parties to avoid actions that could lead to a full-scale conflict.
The situation remains volatile and diplomatic efforts to ease tensions are ongoing. However, the likelihood of finding a peaceful solution remains uncertain. Meanwhile, the British government continues to urge its citizens to leave Lebanon immediately, underlining the fragility of the current situation.
As the situation develops, British citizens are advised to stay informed through official government channels and heed the advice of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). The British embassy in Beirut remains open and offers assistance to those who want to leave the country..