Lebanon war 2024 | Israel-Iran War Looms: Why Are Countries Asking Citizens To Leave Lebanon Immediately?

Israel-Iran War Looms: Why Are Countries Asking Citizens To Leave Lebanon Immediately?

New Delhi, India

The situation in the Middle East has grown increasingly tense, prompting several countries to urge their citizens to leave Lebanon immediately. This advice comes on the heels of escalating conflicts between Israel and Iran, particularly following significant assassinations.

Key Incidents Leading to Tension

The recent chain of events began with the killing of Ismail Haniyeh, a prominent Hamas leader, in Iran. This occurred just hours after the assassination of Fuad Shukr, the military chief of Hezbollah, by Israeli forces in Beirut. These targeted killings have ignited vows of revenge from Iran and its allies, collectively known as the “axis of resistance.”

Current Conflict

Hezbollah, a close ally of Hamas, has been in an ongoing conflict with the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) since October 7, 2023. This began after a significant Hamas attack inside Israel, resulting in over 1,100 Israeli deaths and 240 captives. Since then, more than 1,700 rockets have been launched from Lebanon into Israel, causing casualties and widespread damage.

In response, Israel has conducted various military operations, including a notable drone strike on January 2, 2024, targeting a Hamas office in Beirut. This attack resulted in the deaths of several high-ranking Hamas officials, further escalating the conflict.

Countries Issuing Travel Advisories

India

The Indian government has advised its nationals to avoid non-essential travel to Lebanon. With nearly 4,000 Indian nationals in the country, mostly employed in construction and agricultural sectors, the advisory urges them to exercise caution and stay in contact with the Indian embassy in Beirut.

United States

The US has also advised its citizens to leave Lebanon. Despite some airlines suspending operations, flights are still available. The US Embassy in Lebanon encourages citizens to book any available flights, even if not ideal, and offers financial assistance for those needing repatriation loans.

United Kingdom

The UK has similarly urged its citizens to leave Lebanon, citing high tensions and the potential for rapid deterioration of the situation. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has warned against all travel to Lebanon due to ongoing conflicts and advised citizens to have a personal emergency plan that does not rely on government evacuation.

France

France has issued a travel advisory for its citizens in Lebanon and Iran, urging them to leave due to the risk of military escalation. Air France has suspended flights between Paris and Beirut until at least August 6.

Sweden

Sweden has shut down its embassy in Beirut and called on all Swedish nationals to leave Lebanon as soon as possible. The foreign ministry has relocated its staff to Cyprus, and assistance to expatriates is expected to become increasingly difficult.

Background on Lebanon

History and Politics

Lebanon gained independence in 1943 and established a government representing Maronite Christians, Shiite Muslims, and Sunni Muslims. However, unresolved sectarian conflicts led to a civil war from 1975 to 1990, resulting in over 100,000 deaths. Following the assassination of Prime Minister Rafiq Hariri in 2005, Syrian forces withdrew, but conflicts persisted, including a war with Israel in 2006.

Lebanon is currently without a president after Michel Aoun’s term ended in October 2022, reflecting ongoing political instability. The country has also become a battleground for influence between Iran and Saudi Arabia, with Iran supporting Hezbollah and Saudi Arabia backing Sunni politicians.

Economic Challenges

Lebanon faces severe economic challenges, with inflation reaching nearly 270% in 2023. The Lebanese pound has significantly depreciated against the US dollar. Despite an agreement with the IMF in 2022 for economic assistance, more than 80% of the population lives in poverty.

Refugee Crisis

Lebanon hosts over 1.5 million refugees, including a large number from Syria, further straining its resources. The prolonged conflict in Syria has affected Lebanon’s trade and tourism, compounding its economic difficulties.

Geography

Lebanon is a mountainous country in the Levant region, bordering Israel to the south and Syria to the north and east. The capital city is Beirut, and the population is around 5.35 million, excluding refugees. The most spoken language is Lebanese Arabic, with French and English also widely used in business and education.

Conclusion

The escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, particularly involving Hezbollah and Hamas, has created a volatile situation in Lebanon. Various countries are taking precautionary measures, advising their citizens to leave Lebanon immediately to avoid potential harm. This situation underscores the broader regional instability and the ongoing geopolitical struggles in the Middle East.