South OC Times

The U.S. Embassy in Beirut has issued a Security Alert for Americans currently in Lebanon who wish to depart the country. On Thursday, July 31, the embassy also raised the Travel Advisory for Lebanon to “Level 4: Do Not Travel,” the highest warning level for the entire country.

Congressman Issa is providing guidance for Americans and those with family members in Lebanon:

Consular Assistance

Congressman Issa and his team are ready to assist with visas and passports. While Congressional offices do not issue these documents, staff can help individuals navigate the process.

Congressman Issa’s assistance page: https://issa.house.gov/services/help-federal-agency

For non-constituents of Congressman Issa, find your representative here: https://www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative

Latest Travel Guidance

To make the U.S. Embassy in Beirut aware of your presence in Lebanon, enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). Individuals in America who wish to receive updated travel messaging for a particular country can also enroll in STEP.

Smart Traveler Enrollment Program: https://step.state.gov/

Commercial Travel vs. Evacuation

Currently, the State Department has not initiated an evacuation plan and has provided this information:

Individuals wishing to depart should consider ticket options that may not take them directly to their preferred destination.

Americans should avoid other Level 4 countries, particularly Syria and Iran: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html/

Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport flight board (Airport code: BEY): https://www.beirutairport.gov.lb/_flight.php?type=dprtr

Security Alerts

August 3, 2024, Security Alert: https://lb.usembassy.gov/security-alert-u-s-embassy-beirut-lebanon-august-3-2024/

July 31, 2024, Travel Alert: https://lb.usembassy.gov/security-alert-u-s-embassy-beirut-lebanon-july-31-2024/