The US State Department has initiated a form for US citizens in Lebanon to complete if they wish to receive assistance in leaving the country amidst the escalating military campaign by Israel. While the form does not signify an immediate evacuation or US-supported departures from Lebanon, it does indicate that such options may be forthcoming.
Similar forms have been utilized by the State Department in the past, including in Israel following events on October 7 last year. CNN has contacted the State Department for further details on this matter.
The form specifies that the US can only aid US citizens and their immediate family members (spouses, children under 21, and parents) who possess valid travel documents for onward travel to Turkey or Cyprus.
An advisory from the department urges US citizens to leave Lebanon due to the volatile situation arising from the conflict between Hizballah and Israel, as well as recent explosions across Lebanon, notably in Beirut.
It emphasizes that traveling within Lebanon carries inherent risks, with no guarantee of safety while moving to airports, borders, or during subsequent travel. The announcement stresses that individuals should only consider departing Lebanon or traveling within the country if they believe it is safe to do so, cautioning that the US Embassy may not be able to assist citizens who opt to remain.
