As tensions rise between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, nations across the globe are preparing for a potential large-scale evacuation of their citizens in the region. This escalation of conflict has prompted governments worldwide to devise contingency plans to ensure the safety of their nationals. While no massive evacuation has been initiated, various countries are taking proactive measures to guarantee the safe return of their citizens. Here is an overview of the contingency planning underway:
AUSTRALIA:
– Australia has secured hundreds of airline seats for its citizens in Lebanon, routing them through Cyprus using military aircraft.
– While considering potential evacuation by sea, Australian authorities are urging their estimated 15,000 citizens in Lebanon to depart as soon as possible, capitalizing on the current operational status of Beirut airport.
BELGIUM:
– The Belgian foreign ministry has advised its citizens to leave Lebanon promptly to ensure their safety.
BRAZIL:
– Brazil has mobilized an Airbus A330 from the Air Force to repatriate 3,000 nationals wanting to return home.
– The aircraft is scheduled to conduct two flights weekly, flying 220 individuals out of Beirut per trip.
CHINA:
– China has successfully evacuated more than 200 citizens back to safety under government supervision.
CANADA:
– Canada intends to collaborate with Australia in the potential evacuation of nationals by sea.
– Reports suggest an arrangement to ferry out 1,000 individuals daily on a commercial vessel.
CYPRUS:
– Utilizing an aircraft provided by Greece, Cyprus evacuated 38 of its nationals from Lebanon.
– An estimated 1,000 to 1,500 Cypriots are currently residing in Lebanon.
DENMARK:
– The Danish government is encouraging its citizens to leave Lebanon at their earliest convenience, stressing that there are still functioning commercial flight options out of the country.
FRANCE:
– France has activated contingency plans focusing on Cyprus and Beirut airport.
– Discussions are in progress for potential evacuation routes via Turkey, with a warship in the region awaiting further instructions.
GERMANY:
– Germany has been actively evacuating non-essential staff, embassy families, and vulnerable nationals from Lebanon.
– Additional support will be provided to facilitate the departure of others seeking to leave the conflict zone.
The nations mentioned above are just a glimpse of the global efforts underway to ensure the safe return of their citizens amidst escalating tensions in Lebanon. It is crucial for countries to continue coordinating and executing effective contingency plans to safeguard the well-being of their nationals in conflict-stricken regions.
