The UK government has chartered a flight to evacuate British nationals from Lebanon amid escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah. Foreign Secretary David Lammy described the situation as “volatile” and warned that conditions could deteriorate rapidly.
Eligible passengers include British nationals, their spouses or partners, and children under 18, with priority given to vulnerable individuals. The flight, scheduled to depart from Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport on Wednesday, will charge passengers £350 per seat. Non-British dependents must obtain a six-month visa to enter the UK.
The UK government’s decision reflects growing concerns about the region’s stability. Tensions have escalated since Hamas attacked Israel last October, resulting in over 1,000 deaths and up to a million displaced individuals in Lebanon.
The Israeli military aims to enable 60,000 displaced Israelis to return home, while Hezbollah vows to confront the invasion. The Ministry of Defence has deployed nearly 700 troops to Cyprus to prepare for potential evacuations, and the government advises against all travel to Lebanon.
As the situation unfolds, the UK government’s priority remains the safety of its nationals. Lammy stressed, “We urge British nationals to leave Lebanon immediately.” The chartered flight is part of broader Lebanon evacuation plans.
The UK’s efforts to ensure a safe Lebanon evacuation underscore the gravity of the situation. With tensions escalating, the international community calls for de-escalation and a peaceful resolution.
British nationals in Lebanon face increasing uncertainty. Victoria Lupton, a UK national, shared her concerns: “I’m feeling sick… living in a state of terror.” The UK government’s actions aim to alleviate such fears.
The Lebanon evacuation efforts continue, with the UK working to ensure its nationals’ safe departure.
