Belgians in Lebanon advised to leave as soon as possible
The FPS Foreign Affairs has urged the more than 1,800 Belgians currently in Lebanon to leave the country as soon as possible while commercial flights are still available. This advice was issued in the latest government travel advisory, citing growing unrest in the region.
Several airlines are still operating flights from Beirut to Belgium or other European destinations, either directly or with stopovers. However, the ministry of Foreign Affairs has noted disruptions to air traffic at Beirut International Airport due to the ongoing conflict.
"It is up to the Belgians to contact airlines or a travel agency themselves," the advisory said, adding that arrangements for departure should be made individually. Leaving Lebanon by commercial ship remains an option for those unable to secure a flight.
Since October last year, Belgian authorities have advised against all travel to Lebanon due to the unpredictable situation. The Belgian embassy in Beirut is closely monitoring developments and remains "fully committed to informing and assisting Belgians who are still in Lebanon and may need consular support."
Belgians who have registered with the ministry of Foreign Affairs receive regular updates via text message or email, while additional information is provided through the ministry's travel advisory and social media channels.
Belgians still in Lebanon who have not registered with the authorities are encouraged to do so through TravellersOnline or to contact the embassy via email.
The urgency of the advice comes in response to the escalating conflict between Lebanon and its neighbour Israel. In recent days, Israel has launched rocket attacks on southern Lebanon and Beirut. On Wednesday, Israeli army chief Herzi Halevi warned soldiers to be prepared for a possible invasion of Lebanon.
People fleeing from Lebanon on 25 September 2024 © PHOTO LOUAI BESHARA / AFP
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