Australia’s foreign affairs minister Penny Wong has urged Australians visiting Lebanon to leave the country as soon as possible amid concerns of an escalation in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.
In a video message posted to X, Wong says “my message to Australian citizen and residents in Lebanon is now is the time to leave.”
“If you are in Australia and thinking of traveling to Lebanon, do not,” she continues.
The warning comes after Ismail Haniyeh Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh was killed in an air strike in Iran’s capital Tehran. His assassination came after Hezbollah killed 12 children in an airstrike in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights over the weekend.
Wong has reportedly written to members of the Australian Muslim community asking them to reiterate warnings to leave Lebanon.
“If the conflict escalates, there is a strong possibility Beirut Airport could close at short notice,” she said.
“That means Australians in Lebanon may not be able to leave for an extended period.”
My message to Australian citizens and residents in Lebanon is now is the time to leave. pic.twitter.com/74DNfh1UNz
— Senator Penny Wong (@SenatorWong) July 31, 2024
Currently commercial airlines such as Qantas, Emirates and Qatar are still flying to the country, albeit not directly.
Government body Smartravellors’ advice since the 19 October 2023 has been to not travel to Lebanon. They updated the official guidance yesterday saying “We continue to advise that Australians do not travel to Lebanon due to the volatile security situation and the risk of the security situation deteriorating further.”
The security situation could deteriorate rapidly throughout Lebanon with little or no notice. Some airlines have postponed or cancelled some flights. Further flight cancellations and disruptions could occur with little or no notice.”
Due to the current security risk, the Department of Foreign Affairs has suspended all non-essential travel outside of Beirut for Australian officials and their families.
Tourism is major source of revenue to Lebanon which boasts ancient Roman ruins, well-preserved castles, limestone caves, historic Churches and Mosques, beautiful beaches, and even ski resorts.
A video created by French film director Tolt around the world, supported by Visit Lebanon showcases Lebanon’s diverse beauty.
