Lebanon Travel Advice
Consular Division
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Wellington, New Zealand

LEBANON

As at 14 July 2006

There is extreme risk to your safety due to the escalating tension between Lebanon and Israel and we advise against all travel to Lebanon.

Israel has launched a military offensive against Lebanon following a 12 July Hizbollah cross-border incursion during which two Israeli soldiers were kidnapped and eight others killed. Using artillery, planes and gunboats Israel has conducted attacks on Beirut and on the southern parts of Lebanon. The Beirut airport is currently closed as the runways have been damaged. The Israeli navy has also blockaded all the ports. At least 27 civilians are reported to have been killed in the intensifying military action.

We recommend that New Zealanders currently in Lebanon exercise caution, stay indoors, monitor the media and follow any instructions issued by the authorities. We advise against all travel to the southern suburbs of Beirut and areas south of the capital.

There is continues to be a strong threat of terrorism in Lebanon with bombings and grenade attacks in Beirut. The political situation is unsettled.

See our regional advice for the Middle East.

ENDS

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