Today, the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, issued the following statement urging Canadians to leave Lebanon while they can:
"The safety and security of Canadians at home and abroad is Canada's top priority."
"The security situation in Lebanon is becoming increasingly volatile and unpredictable due to sustained and escalating violence between Hezbollah and Israel and could deteriorate further without warning.
"My message to Canadians has been clear since the beginning of the crisis in the Middle East: it is not the time to travel to Lebanon. And for Canadians currently in Lebanon, it is time to leave, while commercial flights remain available.
"If the armed conflict intensifies it could impact your ability to leave the country and our ability to provide you with consular services. Canada is not currently offering assisted departures or evacuations for Canadians in Lebanon, and these are not guaranteed.
"Canadians in Lebanon should consult our Travel Advice and Advisories for Lebanon regularly and sign up with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service to receive important information from the Government of Canada. Those already registered should update their information and ensure it is accurate.
"Canadians should make sure their travel documents and those of their spouse and dependent children are always up to date and secure.
"Canadians who need emergency consular assistance should contact the Embassy of Canada to Lebanon at 961 4 726 700 or Global Affairs Canada's Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa:
