United States, United Kingdom urge citizens to leave Lebanon quickly
Last Updated on August 4, 2024 8:38 am
The United States and the United Kingdom have urged their citizens to leave Lebanon as soon as possible amid growing fears of a regional war in the Middle East following the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. This news was given in a report of Al Jazeera.
According to reports, the US Embassy in Beirut has urged its citizens to “ticket” and leave Lebanon as soon as possible.
“We encourage those wishing to leave Lebanon to book any tickets,” the embassy said in a statement. We recommend that US citizens who choose not to leave Lebanon plan now for emergencies and be prepared to seek refuge somewhere for an extended period of time.
The UK has given almost similar instructions. The country’s government has told British nationals in Lebanon to ‘leave now’.
British Foreign Secretary David Lammy said in a statement that tensions are high and the situation could deteriorate rapidly. While we are working around the clock to strengthen our consular presence in Lebanon, my clear message to British citizens there – leave Lebanon now.
The killing of Haniya has caused extreme tension across the Middle East. Iran has warned that Israel must repent for its actions. On the other hand, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu threatened that Tel Aviv will not sit down if Tehran attacks.
An IRGC statement released on Saturday (August 3) said, “According to the information received so far based on the investigation, Haniya was attacked by a short-range projectile carrying about 7 kg of explosives, which was launched from outside the guest house.”
The IRGC statement again warned Israel over the killing of Haniya. It has been said that Israel, supported by the “criminal government” of the United States, will be “severely punished in time and place”. The Lebanese armed group Hezbollah also warned of an attack.
The US is sending more warships and planes to the Middle East in support of Israel due to threats from Iran and Hezbollah. Pentagon Deputy Press Secretary Sabrina Singh said in a statement on Friday (August 2), “The Department of Defense is taking various steps to reduce regional tensions by Iran or Iran’s partners and proxies.” We are strongly committed to the defense of Israel.