UK foreign secretary urges British nationals to leave Lebanon amid rising tensions

By Aysu Bicer

LONDON (AA) - UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy on Tuesday urged all British nationals currently in Lebanon to leave the country over the weekend, citing escalating tensions in the region.

"We saw a tragic attack in the Golan Heights, which killed 12 young people," Lammy said.

"The government is unequivocal in condemning this horrific attack. We condemn this horrific attack and call on Hezbollah to cease their rocket strikes," he said during a session at the House of Commons.

Tension has escalated between Hezbollah and Israel following a missile attack on the Druze town of Majdal Shams in Israeli-occupied Golan Heights on Saturday.

While Israel blamed Hezbollah for the attack, which killed 12 people and injured 40 others, the Lebanese group has denied any responsibility.

"Tensions are high and the situation could deteriorate," Lammy warned. "I'm working with our consular teams here to make sure we're prepared for all scenarios. But if this conflict escalates, the government cannot guarantee we will be able to evacuate you immediately. You may be forced to shelter in place."

He also advised citizens against traveling to Lebanon.

"If you are in Lebanon, leave. You should leave while commercial flights are running, and if you are in the UK, do not travel to Lebanon."

Lammy also said the risk of further escalation and regional destabilization is "now more acute than ever."

"We welcome the Lebanese Government statement condemning violence against civilians and urging the cessation of all violence. We continue to support the Lebanese Armed Forces," he said.

"The UK has provided more training and equipment to four of its land border regiments, and we're working intensively with the United Nations and our partners, including the US and France, to encourage de-escalation," the foreign secretary added.

On the ongoing conflict in Gaza, he said: "A ceasefire would not only alleviate the suffering in Gaza and secure the hostages release, it would also reduce tensions across the region, helping to prevent an escalatory cycle in Lebanon and offer hope of renewed peace processes between Israel and Palestinians."