Lebanon travel warning: Aussies told that if they don’t leave they must prepare to ‘shelter in place’

Australians still in Lebanon have been told that if they don’t leave, then they must prepare to “shelter in place for an extended period of time.”

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade on Wednesday afternoon reiterated its advice that Australians should not travel to Lebanon as the security situation was volatile and deteriorating.

The government estimates that at least 15,000 Australians remain in Lebanon, but that figure could be as high as 30,000.

Australians already in Lebanon were advised to leave immediately while commercial flights remained available. Several airlines had already cancelled or postponed flights, and further disruptions were expected.

More than 100 commercial airline seats have been secured for Australians fleeing the conflict zone.

Flights on Monday and Tuesday carried dozens of Australians out, while another scheduled flight for Thursday will add to the tally, 7NEWS reported.

“DFAT will continue to communicate directly with registered Australians in Lebanon about departure options from Lebanon,” the Smartraveller update read.

Australian citizens were urged to register with DFAT’s crisis registration portal and ensure those details were kept up to date.

“The security situation continues to deteriorate in Lebanon. Israeli military airstrikes in southern Beirut and other locations and Israeli military ground operations in southern Lebanon are likely to continue. Australians in Lebanon should avoid known or suspected areas of military activity.

“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.

“Australians unable to secure a commercial flight or not wishing to leave should be prepared to shelter in place for an extended period. Make sure you have enough supplies, including food, water, medicine, radio, torches and batteries. Know where your identity documents are, including your passport.”

It said Beirut Airport could close, and the Australian government may not be able to help if that happens.

Australians have been advised not to travel to Lebanon since September 12, 2023.

Australians have also been warned to reconsider travel to Israel as the threat of missile and rocket attacks continues.

Those already there have been asked to reconsider if they need to remain and have been advised not to travel to border areas with Gaza, Lebanon and the West Bank.

Australians needing emergency consular assistance should contact the Australian Government’s 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135 (within Australia) or +61 2 6261 3305 (from overseas).

— With 7NEWS