Australia Urges Immediate Evacuation from Lebanon Amid Rising Tensions

Australia has requested its citizens in Lebanon to leave due to escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah. Foreign Minister Penny Wong emphasized the urgency, mentioning potential shutdowns at Beirut airport. The advisory aligns with similar notices from the U.S. and Britain amidst the ongoing Middle East conflict.

Australia has issued an urgent advisory for its citizens in Lebanon to leave immediately, citing the increasing risk of escalating tensions between Israel and the militant group Hezbollah. This follows similar warnings issued this week by the United States and Britain.

In a video posted late Wednesday on social media platform X, Foreign Minister Penny Wong stressed the urgency, stating, "Now is the time to leave, the security situation could deteriorate quickly with little or no notice." Wong warned that Beirut airport could cease operations if the situation worsens, potentially leaving Australians stranded for an extended period.

The Middle East remains on edge amidst Israel's ongoing conflict in Gaza, which has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and a dire humanitarian crisis. According to the Australian Foreign Affairs website, around 15,000 Australians currently reside in Lebanon, with numbers swelling during the summer months. The 2021 census revealed that approximately half a million Australians are of Lebanese ancestry.

(With inputs from agencies.)