As Israel escalates its military operations in Lebanon, the UK plans to evacuate nationals, while diplomatic efforts seek to stabilize the region.
A UK government-chartered flight is leaving for Beirut on Wednesday to evacuate British citizens from Lebanon due to rising tensions.
The UK government is prioritizing the most vulnerable, including spouses, partners, and children under 18. Previously, citizens were advised to use commercial flights.
The UK has deployed 700 troops to Cyprus, ready to help around 5,000 British citizens in Lebanon.
The situation in Lebanon is described as volatile by Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who warns of potential rapid deterioration.
Democratic Party leader Elly Schlein has called for Israel to withdraw from Lebanese territory, stressing the importance of respecting sovereignty and international law.
She advocates for a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon, denouncing daily atrocities and calling for European and international intervention.
Israeli Army Continues Operation 'Northern Arrows', Begins 'Targeted Ground Raids' In South Lebanon#Israel #YemenOnFire #LebanonUnderAttack #MiddleEastCrisis https://t.co/P0LdZRDshD
— News18 (@CNNnews18) October 1, 2024
An Israeli airstrike on a Palestinian refugee camp in southern Lebanon has killed six people, including a senior Palestinian official’s son.
The strike targeted the home of Gen. Munir Makdah, a Fatah official, and resulted in the deaths of three children.
The Lebanese army has moved troops along the border with Israel, working with UN peacekeepers.
They have denied reports of troop evacuations but have not provided specifics.
The army has also warned civilians to avoid areas south of the Litani River due to intense fighting.
Hezbollah has vowed to resist any Israeli occupation. Israel has begun ground operations against Hezbollah, escalating their conflict.
Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni has stressed the need for de-escalation and the safety of Italian UNIFIL troops in southern Lebanon.
Italy is working with international partners to stabilize the situation and help displaced people return home.
Cyprus has been slowly and carefully moving foreign citizens from Lebanon, with no major evacuations yet.
They have helped some groups like diplomats and others, planning to temporarily house them before sending them back.
This approach is similar to how they helped during the 2006 war.
Israel begins Lebanon ground invasion with 'limited' raids on Hezbollah – Reuters https://t.co/FMPuS16FYi
— RFC (@RadioFranCoxion) October 1, 2024
In Lebanon, Hezbollah has been attacking Israeli soldiers with artillery and rockets, but it’s not clear if anyone was hurt. They are also supporting Hamas and fighting back against Israel.
Meanwhile, Houthi rebels in Yemen have attacked ships in the Red Sea, showing a possible increase in violence as the Israel-Hamas conflict spreads.
The first attack happened near Hodeida, affecting safety and targeting ships connected to Israel, the US, and the UK.
The US supports Israel’s efforts to weaken Hezbollah but warns against more military action.
The US also supports Israel’s right to defend itself and the need to deal with threats. As Israel attacks Hezbollah, the situation is uncertain and could get worse.