The United States Embassy in Beirut has urged its citizens to leave Lebanon as soon as possible, citing escalating security risks. In a security alert issued on Tuesday morning, the embassy advised those who feel safe to consider departing via Middle East Airlines flights from Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport. For those unable to leave, the embassy recommended seeking safe shelter.

The advisory follows a week of continuous Israeli bombardment across Beirut and southern Lebanon. Israel has stated that its operations target Hezbollah, an Iran-backed armed group. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have also instructed residents of southern Lebanon to evacuate urgently due to ongoing airstrikes. IDF spokesperson Avichay Adraee said Israel is taking strict measures against Hezbollah activities south of the Litani River.

According to Lebanon’s Ministry of Health, 486 people have been killed since the start of the Israeli offensive earlier this month, as reported by BBC Bangla.