The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued new guidance for British nationals concerning travel to Lebanon, where the situation is described as 'tense'. The update, released on Thursday, May 21, advises against all travel to certain parts of the country.
FCDO Warning on Lebanon Travel
The FCDO states: 'FCDO advises against all travel to parts of Lebanon. FCDO advises against all but essential travel to parts of Lebanon.' The warning comes amid rising regional tensions and ongoing conflict affecting Lebanon. The FCDO notes that 'the situation in the Middle East remains unpredictable.'
Seven Key Instructions for UK Tourists
The FCDO has listed seven essential steps for British nationals in or considering travel to Lebanon:
- Prepare for a crisis: Review guidance on how to prepare, including emergency supplies.
- Follow local authorities' advice: Adhere to instructions from local officials during a crisis.
- Sign up for FCDO Travel Advice email alerts: Stay informed via official updates.
- Monitor local and international media: Keep abreast of the latest developments.
- Avoid security or military facilities: Stay away from areas around such installations.
- Keep departure plans under review: Ensure travel documents are up to date.
- Take shelter if advised: If told to shelter, stay indoors or find the nearest safe building. Use interior stairwells or rooms with few external walls for protection from falling debris.
The FCDO warns that travel insurance may be invalidated if travelling against its advice, and consular support is severely limited in areas where it advises against travel.
Background on Regional Tensions
The updated advice follows Israeli airstrikes on southern Lebanon on Tuesday, which killed at least 19 people, including four women and three children, according to Lebanon's health ministry. These attacks are part of near-daily exchanges that have persisted despite a fragile US-brokered ceasefire.
