By Barry Ellsworth
TRENTON, Canada (AA) - Canada warned its nationals Tuesday to leave Lebanon now as the Israel-Hezbollah conflict could devolve into war.
“There is no evacuation operation underway for Canadians currently in Lebanon and you should not rely on the Government of Canada for any future assisted departures or evacuation,” Global Affairs Canada said in an email sent to Canadians registered in Lebanon, Global News reported.
Canadians are not the only ones told to leave -- the UK, US, France and Germany have issued similar warnings to their nationals. As well, flights to Beirut airport have been canceled by several European airlines, including Lufthansa and Air France.
“In light of the recent escalation in hostilities, we remind all Canadians in Lebanon of our existing travel advice which is to leave Lebanon while some commercial flights are still available. Some airlines have already temporarily suspended service to Beirut Airport. Further flight cancellations and disruptions may occur with little or no notice,” said Global Affairs Canada, according to Global News.
Lebanon feared a retaliatory strike by Israel after a rocket, allegedly fired by Hezbollah, as Israel claimed, hit a soccer field in Israel-controlled Golan Heights last weekend, killing 12 children and teens. The Lebanese group has denied responsibility.
Those fears were realized Tuesday when Israel carried out a strike on Beirut, targeting the Hezbollah commander who Israeli officials said initiated the strike.
“The IDF carried out a targeted strike in Beirut, on the commander responsible for the murder of the children in Majdal Shams and the killing of numerous additional Israeli civilians,” the Israeli military said in a statement, said CBC News.
The strike damaged buildings but it is unclear if there were casualties.