US issues travel advisory for Lebanon as tensions disrupt flight schedules

The United States issued a travel advisory to its citizens in Lebanon on Sunday amid growing regional tensions that have disrupted flight schedules, according to the US Embassy in Beirut.

Fears of an all-out war in Lebanon have surged in recent weeks as violent clashes between Israel and Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militant group, have intensified. The two sides have been engaged in frequent cross-border exchanges since Israel launched its offensive in Gaza, where Hezbollah ally Hamas operates.

In response to the conflict, Middle East Airlines (MEA) announced that some flights originally scheduled to arrive in Beirut on the evening of July 28 will now land the following morning, July 29, according to the embassy. Other airlines are also reportedly adjusting their schedules due to the ongoing violence.

According to an AFP tally, at least 481 people have been killed in Lebanon since October 7, including 94 civilians. On the Israeli side, at least 15 soldiers and 11 civilians have died.

The US Embassy urged American travelers to closely monitor their flight statuses and remain flexible with their plans, as itineraries may change with little or no notice.

The current US travel advisory recommends reconsidering travel to Lebanon due deadly attacks in the region.