OSLO, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide has issued a strong advisory urging all Norwegian citizens currently in Lebanon to leave the country immediately due to the escalating security situation.
"The security situation in Lebanon is serious and could rapidly deteriorate further. Opportunities to travel out of Lebanon may cease at short notice," Eide stated in a press release on Monday night.
He emphasized the potential complications that could arise if Beirut's airport were to close, highlighting the limited capacity of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to assist Norwegian citizens in such a scenario.
"If the airport in Beirut closes, it will be very difficult to leave Lebanon. In such a situation, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will have very few opportunities to help Norwegian citizens. We have for some time advised Norwegian citizens in Lebanon to leave the country," he said.
Approximately 100 Norwegian citizens are currently registered as being in Lebanon, although the actual number may be higher. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reiterated its call for these citizens to depart.
Despite several airlines canceling flights in recent days, some scheduled flights continue to operate from Beirut's airport, providing limited opportunities for departure.
In related travel advisories, Norway's Ministry of Foreign Affairs recently updated its recommendations for Israel and Palestine, advising against all travel to both regions. ■
