The United States advised its citizens against traveling to Lebanon and arranged the temporary departure of some staff from the U.S. Embassy in Beirut. The information came via a statement from the U.S. State Department reported by TASS.
The statement cited an unforeseen security situation as the reason for allowing the family members of embassy personnel and select embassy staff to leave the country voluntarily for a limited time. The policy applies only to employees not engaged in emergency duties.
In addition, the State Department urged U.S. citizens to avoid visiting Lebanon amid ongoing clashes between Israel and the Shiite group Hezbollah.
Earlier remarks indicated that President Joe Biden would offer assurances to Lebanon’s leaders during his visit to Israel, confirming Washington’s readiness to address military aid requirements. These points were outlined by John Kirby, the strategic communications coordinator for the White House National Security Council.
Earlier statements from Hamas suggested that foreign hostages would be released only when conditions permit.