The UK government has announced that it will charter a flight to evacuate British nationals from Lebanon amid escalating tensions in the region. Over 250 British citizens have already been evacuated, and the government is urging remaining nationals to register immediately.
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| The UK government is urging British nationals to leave Lebanon amid deteriorating security and decreasing commercial flight options. A final chartered flight is scheduled for Sunday, October 6th. Symbolic image |
London, UK – October 5, 2024:
As tensions in the region continue to rise, the UK government has announced that it will charter a flight to evacuate British nationals from Lebanon on Sunday, October 6th. This decision comes in response to the escalating conflict and a significant decrease in commercial flight options.
Over 250 British citizens have already left Lebanon on previous chartered flights organized by the UK government. However, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) is urging any remaining British nationals who wish to depart to register immediately or consider alternative commercial routes.
The FCDO has been advising British citizens to leave Lebanon since last October due to deteriorating security conditions. The government has organized three chartered flights so far, with the fourth scheduled for Sunday.
While the government has committed to providing chartered flights as long as there is demand and the security situation allows, the recent decline in demand has led to the cancellation of future flights.
British nationals who wish to secure a seat on the Sunday flight are advised to register with the government as soon as possible. Eligible passengers include British nationals, their spouses or partners, and children under 18. All passengers must possess valid travel documents, and non-British dependents will require a valid visa for a stay of more than six months in the UK.
The UK government has deployed a Rapid Deployment Team to Lebanon to provide additional support to British Embassy officials. Foreign Secretary David Lammy emphasized the volatile situation in Lebanon and urged British nationals to leave the country immediately.
The upcoming flight will depart from Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport, and registered British nationals will receive details on how to request a seat. The FCDO strongly advises against traveling to the airport without a confirmed flight booking.
The UK government continues to prioritize the safety of British nationals and has deployed 700 troops and Foreign Office and Home Office staff to Cyprus for contingency planning. The UK also calls for a ceasefire between Lebanese Hezbollah and Israel to allow for a peaceful resolution and the safe return of civilians to their homes.