DFAT re-issues travel advice urging Australians to leave Lebanon immediately
The Australian government has re-issued its travel warning for Lebanon, urging Australians there to leave immediately amid a dramatic escalation in the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.
It comes even as Israel launches a fresh round of missile strikes overnight in southern Beirut (late morning AEST).
The re-issued travel advice from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) described the security situation as "volatile" and at high risk of "deteriorating further".
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DFAT is warning Australians not to travel to Lebanon, even as Israel again strikes Beirut. DFAT
"Military action has also increased in southern Lebanon with airstrikes, rocket and missile fire," the DFAT statement read.
"The conflict could continue to escalate quickly or spread to other areas in Lebanon with little notice.
"This could affect your ability to move to safety."
While commercial flights out of Lebanon continue to operate, there have been some postponements and cancellations.
DFAT warned more cancellations are likely and Beirut airport may shut down altogether.
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Israeli shelling hits an area in southern Lebanon as seen from northern Israel, early on Tuesday. AP Photo/Leo Correa
"The Australian government may not be able to assist you to leave in such circumstances," the statement warned.
"If you choose not to leave while commercial flights are operating, be prepared to shelter in place for an extended period."
The fresh warning comes as Foreign Minister Penny Wong confirmed the Australian government has assisted "a number of Australians" to evacuate, with more flights scheduled.
Australians have been advised against travelling to Lebanon since October last year, but it's estimated that around 15,000 still remain in the country.
"We're working to ensure Australians who want to leave Lebanon can continue to, including with partners such as Canada and the UK," Wong said in a post on X.
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Israeli army tanks manoeuvre in a staging area in northern Israel near the Israel-Lebanon border on Tuesday. AP Photo/Baz Ratner
"A number of Australians were assisted onto commercial flights on Monday and overnight.
"We have secured additional seats for flights on Thursday.
"We are working to access more flights over the coming days."
She urged Australians in Lebanon who wished to leave to register with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade's online crisis portal.
"DFAT is contacting registered Australians with updates," she said.
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