On October 17, 2023, the US State Department issued a Level 4: Do Not Travel Advisory for Lebanon to reflect the authorized departure of family members of U.S. government personnel and some non-emergency personnel on a case-by-case basis.
U.S. Citizens are advised to not travel to Lebanon due tothe unpredictable security situation related to rocket, missile, and artillery exchanges between Israel and Hizballah or other armed militant factions.
Additionally, the State Department advises:
- U.S. Citizens should not travel to:
- the border with Syria due to terrorism and armed conflict
- the border with Israel due to the potential for armed conflict
- refugee settlements due to the potential for armed clashes
- Large demonstrations have erupted in the wake of recent violence in Israel and Gaza. U.S. citizens should avoid demonstrations and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings or protests as some of these have turned violent.
- U.S. citizens who choose to travel to Lebanon should be aware that consular officers from the U.S. Embassy are not always able to travel to assist them. The Department of State considers the threat to U.S. government personnel in Beirut sufficiently serious to require them to live and work under strict security.
Erickson Insights
The situation in Israel, Gaza, and the region is ongoing and subject to sudden change quickly and without notice. Updated, October 19, additional countries have also issued “Do Not Travel” advisories to Lebanon, including Australia, Canada, and others. Additional information is available on EIG’s dedicated Israel & Gaza Information Report.
Erickson Immigration Group will continue to share updates as more news is available. If you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions, please contact your employer or EIG attorney.