Is It Safe To Travel To Lebanon Right Now? Latest Travel Advisory
In anticipation of an Israeli ground invasion of Gaza, Germany’s Foreign Office issued a travel warning for Israel, the Palestinian territories, and Lebanon on Sunday. There was already a warning in effect for the Gaza Strip.
The directive follows last weekend’s widespread attacks by the Hamas militant group in Israel, which has been designated a terrorist organization by the United States, Germany, and other countries. In addition to other foreigners, about 1,300 Israelis perished in the attacks.
Over the course of the week, more than 2,300 Palestinians have been killed by retaliatory missile attacks that the Israeli military has unleashed on the Gaza Strip.
Related: Is it safe to travel to Egypt right now?
What does the U.S. State Department have to say about Lebanon?
Because of crime, terrorism, armed conflict, civil unrest, kidnappings, and the limited ability of embassies to assist Americans, you should seriously reconsider travel to Lebanon.
Do Not Travel to:
The border with Syria is a region of concern because of terrorism and ongoing armed conflict. Similarly, the border with Israel raises concerns due to the potential for armed conflict. Refugee settlements are also areas of potential risk, as they may be susceptible to armed clashes.
According to local security authorities, the number of violent crimes, including political violence, has increased. It is possible that several unsolved murders in Lebanon were politically motivated. Any American living or working in Lebanon should review their personal security precautions and be aware of the risks associated with being in Lebanon.
10 General safety guidelines for your trip to Lebanon
Stay informed about the security situation, whether through television, radio, Twitter, or other sources, as conditions can change rapidly.
Exercise caution when attending significant events, such as large gatherings or sports activities, as they can potentially be targets for terrorist attacks.
Stick to well-trodden paths and avoid wandering into less-traveled areas, considering the presence of landmines; it’s advisable to use a guide.
Follow the instructions of law enforcement and officials, particularly when encountering numerous military checkpoints. Compliance is essential for your safety.
Refrain from photographing military installations, as capturing images of non-tourist sites may lead to scrutiny.
Do not engage in drug use in Lebanon, as even minor quantities can result in legal consequences; law enforcement may use entrapment techniques.
Avoid public displays of affection for same-sex couples, as such behavior can lead to imprisonment.
Be mindful of your belongings and ensure your bag is securely closed to prevent theft or loss.
Minimize the amount of cash you carry with you to reduce the risk of theft or misplacement. A security belt can be used to store any additional funds you might require.
Carry identification with you at all times, as you may be asked to present it by authorities; a copy of your ID is also acceptable.
Final Recommendation
Refrain from non-essential travel to Lebanon due to the uncertain security situation, increased terrorist threat, and ongoing armed conflict with Israel. Be aware that the security situation can deteriorate rapidly without prior notice. Please adhere to regional recommendations and continue to avoid all travel south of the Litani River. In the event of an escalation of the armed conflict, it is possible that commercial travel out of the country may be affected.
