Travelers Rush to Exit Lebanon Amid Anticipated Iranian Attack on Israel

Tensions at Lebanon’s Rafic Hariri International Airport are high as travelers scramble to leave before an anticipated Iranian attack on Israel. The situation has led to significant disruptions and cancellations, with fears of escalating conflict involving Hezbollah. Below are the key points summarizing the current scenario:

1. Travel Rush: Both Lebanese and foreigners are hastening to leave Lebanon amid fears of an Iranian attack on Israel, which could escalate fighting between Israel and Hezbollah.
2. Israeli Flights: Israeli fighter jets frequently fly over Lebanon, breaking the sound barrier in what many Lebanese see as an intimidation tactic.
3. Airline Cancellations: Major European airlines like Air France and Lufthansa have stopped flights to Beirut, citing rising insurance premiums, leaving Middle East Airlines to handle increased demand.
4. US and UK Advisories: The US Embassy advised Americans to be prepared to shelter in place, while the UK Foreign Secretary urged British nationals to leave Lebanon immediately.
5. Historical Context: Memories of the 2006 Israel-Lebanon conflict and the subsequent bombing of Beirut airport have heightened current fears, despite the Lebanese government’s assurances that there are no Hezbollah missiles at the airport.
6. Expatriate Influx: Lebanon’s summer season sees many expatriates returning for weddings and reunions, complicating the situation as many try to leave amid the crisis.
7. Personal Stories: Passengers like India Smith and her fiancé, as well as families like the Nawwars and Khazzakas, face flight delays and cancellations, with many expressing anxiety but also a sense of resignation to the situation.
8. Embassy Evacuations: Some embassies and companies have started evacuating their staff and families, with the UK Embassy evacuating diplomatic families over the weekend.
9. Rescue Groups: U.S. rescue organizations, like the Grey Bull Rescue Foundation, are preparing to evacuate Americans by sea or air if commercial flights cease, leveraging their experience from previous conflict zones.
10. Community Resilience: Despite the threat of conflict, many Lebanese continue to cope with the situation with resilience, having endured similar crises in the past.