The US State Department has issued a level 4 travel advisory for Lebanon, urging Americans not to travel to the country due to escalating tensions between Hezbollah and Israel. The advisory, updated on Wednesday, specifically cites the growing conflict between the two parties as a reason for the warning.
A statement from the State Department reads, “Do Not Travel to Lebanon due to rising tensions between Hizballah and Israel. If you are in Lebanon, be prepared to shelter in place should the situation deteriorate.”
The advisory also includes a strong recommendation for US citizens in Southern Lebanon, near the borders with Syria, and refugee settlements to leave the area as a precautionary measure.
Previously, the State Department had cautioned against travel to southern Lebanon, but the recent update extends the warning to cover the entire country, reflecting the heightened tensions in the region.
This update follows an Israeli strike on a Hezbollah commander in Beirut, which further exacerbated the already tense situation between the two parties.
Americans planning to travel to Lebanon are advised to closely monitor the situation and stay informed about any developments that may impact their safety and security. The US Embassy is actively monitoring the situation and providing assistance to US citizens in the region.