Canada Secures Airline Seats to Evacuate Citizens from Lebanon Amid Escalating Conflict
As the situation in Lebanon intensifies due to ongoing Israeli military actions, the Canadian government has stepped in to assist its citizens in leaving the country. Global Affairs Canada (GAC) has begun reserving seats on commercial flights for Canadians, urging them to depart while flights remain available.
Mélanie Joly, Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister, emphasized the importance of immediate action. “Canadians need to leave now,” Joly stated, urging those still in Lebanon to secure a flight as soon as possible. Canadians are responsible for covering the cost of the tickets, but financial assistance is available for those who cannot afford the fare.
Since last year, Canadian authorities have advised citizens to leave Lebanon, with warnings intensifying over the summer as tensions across the Middle East increased. The current evacuations are prioritized for those registered with Canada’s embassy in Beirut.
Defense Minister Bill Blair confirmed that the government is ready to evacuate up to 20,000 Canadians currently registered in Lebanon. He also mentioned that while flights would transport citizens to safety, a full repatriation to Canada may not be immediate. Cyprus is considered one potential destination for evacuees.
Additionally, 150 Canadian troops have been deployed to the region as a precautionary measure, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
The Canadian government continues to work with its international partners, including the U.S., Australia, France, and local authorities in Cyprus, Greece, and Turkey, to coordinate evacuation plans.
The situation in Lebanon remains volatile, with the government monitoring developments closely. For now, the main message is clear: Canadians should leave Lebanon while they still can.