U.S. Embassy in Lebanon

Location: Lebanon

Event

The security situation in Lebanon is volatile and unpredictable.  Airstrikes, drones and rocket attacks occur throughout the country, especially in the south, the Beqaa, and parts of Beirut.  Iran and its aligned terrorist militias may intend to target universities in Lebanon.  Iran has specifically threatened American universities across the Middle East.  If you are in the country, the Department of State urges U.S. citizens to depart Lebanon while commercial flight options remain available.

We urge U.S. citizens not to travel to Lebanon. We recommend that U.S. citizens in Lebanon who choose not to leave prepare contingency plans for emergency situations and be prepared to shelter in place should the situation deteriorate further. The U.S. Embassy strongly encourages U.S. citizens in southern Lebanon, near the borders with Syria, in refugee settlements, and in the southern suburbs of Beirut, including Dahiyeh, to depart those areas immediately.

Commercial flights are currently offered by Middle East Airlines, operating out of Beirut Rafic Hariri airport.  Americans should strongly consider departing on one of these flights if they believe it is safe to do so.  Visit the Middle East Airlines website to find information about flight availability and purchasing tickets.

The U.S. Embassy Beirut is providing limited passport services on an emergency basis to U.S. citizens.  All routine consular services, including visa operations, are suspended until further notice.

Americans whose passport has been lost, stolen, or expired must send an email to BeirutACS@state.gov.  You will be contacted with an appointment time and date for an emergency passport service.

Actions to Take

• Leave Lebanon .
• As advised in the Lebanon Travel Advisory, U.S. citizens should avoid all travel to Lebanon.
• U.S. citizens should  come to the U.S. Embassy without a scheduled appointment.
• If you are in Lebanon, be prepared to shelter in place and have a contingency plan should the situation deteriorate.
• Maintain communication with family and friends to inform them of your status.
• Have travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
• In case of an attack, stay away from any debris, and monitor news outlets for official guidance.
• Find a secure location within your residence or another safe building. Have a supply of food, water, medications, and other essential items.
• Avoid protests and demonstrations, keep a low profile, and stay aware of your surroundings.
• Pay close attention to communications from local officials.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts from the Embassy

For Assistance Contact

State Department – Consular Affairs 

From the U.S. & Canada: +1-888-407-4747

From Overseas: +1-202-501-4444

U.S. Embassy Beirut: BeirutACS@state.gov