U.S. Urges Citizens to Depart Lebanon Amid Growing Regional Tensions
The U.S. government is urging all American citizens in Lebanon to leave the country as soon as possible, emphasizing that official assistance for departures will not last indefinitely. With regional instability escalating, U.S. authorities are offering additional travel support but recommend that individuals prepare personal contingency plans in case the situation worsens.
Beirut’s Airport: A Closing Window of Opportunity
Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport remains operational, and commercial flights are still available. American citizens are advised to book flights while they can. Since September 27, the U.S. government has arranged extra capacity on outbound flights for U.S. citizens and their families. However, many of these seats remain unused. Officials warn that the special flights will not be available indefinitely, urging those who have not yet left to act quickly before conditions deteriorate further.
Emergency Support: Passports and Loans Available
The U.S. Embassy in Beirut encourages American citizens to complete the Crisis Intake Form, which facilitates direct assistance for those in need of emergency passports, travel loans, or help booking flights. Once registered, the embassy will contact individuals with information on available seats to safe third countries and can process emergency loan applications for those who qualify.
For travelers requiring urgent document services, the embassy can issue emergency passports to ensure citizens can leave Lebanon swiftly.
Staying in Lebanon? Prepare a Contingency Plan
For those choosing to stay despite the warnings, the U.S. government advises creating personal contingency plans that do not rely on government evacuation efforts. With tensions rising in the region, individuals need to be prepared for rapid changes, ensuring they have access to food, communication tools, and safe shelter if the situation escalates.
Contact Information for Assistance
- U.S. Embassy in Beirut
Location: Awkar – Across from the Municipality, Main Street, Beirut, LebanonPhone Support:
- From the U.S. & Canada: 1-888-407-4747
- From Overseas: +1-202-501-4444
Additionally, the embassy recommends that all Americans enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive real-time updates and alerts.
A Critical Moment: Act Now to Ensure Safety
Given the unpredictability of the situation, U.S. citizens are strongly advised to leave Lebanon immediately. Delays may result in lost opportunities for safe travel, and future government assistance may be unavailable. Individuals must act now to avoid becoming stranded if tensions escalate further.
