By Merve Berker
Ireland on Thursday issued a travel advisory for Lebanon, warning its citizens of the potential security risks in the region.
The Irish Foreign Ministry has advised against all travel to certain areas of Lebanon and urged Irish citizens currently in the country to exercise extreme caution.
Citing the ongoing political instability and occasional outbreaks of violence, the advisory highlighted the unpredictable nature of the security situation in Lebanon.
"The security situation in Lebanon can deteriorate quickly,” the statement said, adding: “There is a heightened risk of violence, including clashes between armed groups and the Lebanese Armed Forces."
It further noted specific areas where travel is strongly discouraged, particularly areas close to the Syrian border and refugee camps.
Irish citizens are advised to monitor local media and follow instructions from local authorities.
"The presence of armed groups, kidnapping, and the risk of becoming caught up in unrest pose a serious threat to travelers," the ministry warned.
Irish citizens currently in Lebanon are strongly advised to register with the Embassy of Ireland in Beirut and to stay informed about developments that may affect their safety.
The travel advisory also emphasized the importance of comprehensive travel insurance and recommended that travelers keep a copy of their passport and a list of emergency contacts readily accessible.
The US also warned its citizens on the same issue on Thursday. Germany and the Netherlands on Wednesday asked their citizens to leave Lebanon amid fears of a war between Hezbollah and Israel. Canada, North Macedonia and Kuwait have earlier made a similar call.
Tensions have risen along Lebanon's border with Israel amid cross-border attacks between Hezbollah and Israeli forces as Tel Aviv pressed ahead with its deadly offensive on the Gaza Strip, which has killed over 37,700 people since October following an attack by the Palestinian group Hamas.