Ministers from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and the Ministry of Defence have issued a stark warning to British nationals, advising them to leave while commercial flights are still available.

The government has dispatched additional personnel, including Border Force and consular officials, to the region to reinforce embassy staff and provide support.

Foreign Secretary David Lammy stressed the urgency of the situation, stating, “Tensions are high, and the situation could deteriorate rapidly. While we are working round the clock to strengthen our consular presence in Lebanon, my message to British nationals there is clear – leave now.”

He also mentioned the need for de-escalation and a diplomatic resolution, warning that the consequences of a broader conflict could be severe. “A widening of this conflict is in nobody’s interest – the consequences could be catastrophic. That’s why we continue to call for de-escalation and a diplomatic solution.”