Lebanese broadcaster LBCI says the US embassy in Beirut has evacuated dozens of staffers via the city’s Rafik Hariri International Airport “as a precautionary measure amid anticipated regional developments.”
The evacuation is confirmed by the US State Department.
“The Department of State has ordered the departure of non-emergency US government personnel and eligible family members from U.S. Embassy Beirut,” the State Department says.
“We continuously assess the security environment, and based on our latest review, we determined it prudent to reduce our footprint to essential personnel. The Embassy remains operational with core staff in place. This is a temporary measure intended to ensure the safety of our personnel while maintaining our ability to operate and assist U.S. citizens,” the statement continues.
The move comes amid growing speculation that Hezbollah will attack Israel in case of a war sparked by a US strike on the Lebanese group’s benefactor, Iran.
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