In a high-stakes move, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has urged all British nationals in Lebanon to leave the country “immediately.”
This urgent directive comes amid rising tensions in the Middle East, prompting the UK government to send 700 troops to Cyprus as a precautionary measure, potentially preparing for a mass evacuation.
The Ministry of Defence confirmed the deployment to the Mediterranean island, where military forces are on standby to support any potential evacuations.
With Lebanon being increasingly affected by the regional conflict, the UK government has expressed heightened concerns about the safety of British citizens in the country.
Foreign Secretary James Cleverly emphasized the urgency of the situation, advising nationals in Lebanon to "take all necessary steps" to exit while commercial flights remain available.
The UK has also increased its diplomatic efforts to coordinate with international partners, ensuring any evacuation plan is swift and well-organized if it becomes necessary.
The move follows a series of precautionary measures taken by other European nations, underscoring growing unease as instability spreads across the region.
British nationals still in Lebanon have been encouraged to contact the nearest embassy for further guidance.
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