Lebanon in Chaos as France Calls on Citizens to Leave Amid Israeli-War Fears
Paris, Lebanon – Tension has escalated in the Middle East with France warning its citizens to immediately leave Lebanon, as the US and other Western nations follow suit amidst growing concerns over an unprecedented Israeli war.
Lebanon’s Iran-backed Hezbollah movement intensified its rocket fire at Israel on Saturday, prompting Israeli forces to maintain an air campaign against Gaza since the October 7 Palestinian attack sparked the war. On Sunday, militants killed two people in a Jerusalem suburb, with an Iranian suspect confirmed dead.
Israel’s determination to conquer Hamas in retaliation has ignited vows of vengeance from Tehran’s allies, heightening fears that a miscalculation could provoke a war without constraints.
French foreign ministers have issued an "urging ask" for French citizens already in Lebanon to leave, and for no one to travel to the country amid expectations of "highly volatile security." Similar warnings have come from Canadian and Jordanian authorities. Air travel to Lebanon and several airports in the region has been suspended amid growing tensions.
Hama leader Ismail Hanein’s assassination by suspected Israeli forces has also set tongues wagging. Israel remains under pressure to destroy Hamas due to the unprecedented October 7 killings of 1,197 civilians – the highest civilian death toll this century. Meanwhile, analysts advise caution as Tehran plans major retaliation against Israel, predicting Iranian and Hezbollah attacks that disregard military boundaries.
With Lebanon amidst chaos, Western powers such as the United States are positioning troops alongside their Israeli allies to tackle Gaza. On Sunday, Qater Airways restricted Beirut-bound journeys to daylight hours.
US Secretary of State Joe Biden hesitated to confirm or refuse an Israeli-Hamas meeting, while Prime Minister Bennett announced Israel’s dedication to secure a "lasting solution." Some have questioned his administration regarding their intentions for Gaza. Experts stress that the key lies within a ceasefire to calm Gaza protests and a prisoner swap solution.
Lebanon becomes the latest victim amidst soaring regional tensions, while many eyes await an impending battle; all we can hope, at this stage, is this will lead to a safer conclusion.
Source: Agence Française Presse
