The Foreign Office has withdrawn all staff from its Lebanese embassy and has warned against all travel to the country as tensions rise with neighbouring Israel.
In guidance, it warned against travelling to Lebanon due to “risks” associated with the conflict between Israel, Gaza and the West Bank.
It comes after Israeli warplanes conducted airstrikes along the border with Lebanon on Saturday as the militant Hezbollah group attacked several Israeli army posts, including one that was struck with two large rockets.
“There are ongoing mortar and artillery exchanges and air strikes in South Lebanon, on the boundary with Israel. Tensions are high and events could escalate with little warning, which could affect or limit exit routes out of Lebanon,” the FCDO’s website said.
“There is also a risk of civil unrest. There have been large protests outside embassies, including outside the US and French embassies on 17 October. Further protests are expected. British nationals should exercise caution and avoid areas where demonstrations may be held.
“Due to the security situation, some staff at the British embassy and all family members of staff have been temporarily withdrawn. The embassy continues with essential work including services to British nationals.”
On Friday, Hezbollah’s leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah said he was prepared for all options against Israel and he could “resort to them at any time.”
Exchange of gunfire has been on the rise along the Lebanon-Israel border following the 7 October, attack by the Palestinian militant Hamas group that killed more than 1,400 civilians and troops in southern Israel.
This is a breaking news story. More to follow.