The German Embassy in Beirut has once more urged Germans registered on the ELEFAND emergency contact list to leave Lebanon without delay. In particular, the Embassy stressed in its letter that the risk of a military escalation in the region had increased even further following the developments of the last few days.

Furthermore, the Embassy provided advice on what action to take to those who decide to stay in Lebanon despite the tense situation, and stated that they may have to fend for themselves for a prolonged period in the crisis region should the situation deteriorate further. The Embassy urged them to stock up on enough food, water, medicines and cash to last several weeks in this event.

Moreover, the Embassy pointed out to Germans in Lebanon that the cancellation of flights, the temporary closure of the airport or the absence of alternative ways to leave the country would not automatically trigger an immediate evacuation. The Embassy writes:

“What is more, an evacuation operation involves risks and uncertainties and is by no means without difficulties. It is not possible to collect individuals from their homes. Even in the case of an evacuation, you would have to make your own way to the designated point of departure. Evacuation is not free of charge. All visa requirements remain in place and you can only be evacuated if your travel documents are complete and valid. The journey could be long, perhaps lasting several days. Each person is only permitted to take a very limited amount of luggage (considerably less than on a normal flight) and pets cannot be transported. We therefore call on you once more to make your own arrangements to leave the country while this is still possible – even if it means taking a roundabout route or purchasing an expensive plane ticket.”