Australians are being warned to “leave Lebanon immediately” amid fears Israel could retaliate after rocket attacks killed 12 children in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights.
The federal government has issued a travel advisory for Lebanon amid concerns about the country's “unstable security situation and the risk of further deterioration”.
Smartraveller, an agency of Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs, has warned Australians that the situation in Lebanon could “rapidly deteriorate” without warning as military action in the region increases.
The government has urged Australians to leave while commercial flights are still operating.
“Some airlines have postponed or canceled some flights. Additional flight cancellations and disruptions may occur with little or no notice,” the warning reads.
As tensions rise, Beirut's airport could be closed, leaving people stranded for an extended period.
International airlines, including German carriers Lufthansa, Swiss and Eurowings, have reportedly suspended all flights to Beirut until August 5.
Air France has suspended all flights between Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport and Beirut scheduled for July 29 and 30.
“Air France is monitoring the situation in Lebanon in real time,” the airline said.
Those who chose not to leave were warned that the government might not be able to help if the situation worsened.
The warning comes as military action in southern Lebanon increases, including air strikes as well as rocket and missile launches.
The government has warned that the conflict could spread to other parts of Lebanon, including Beirut, and that safe travel for travelers could be restricted.
The federal government has advised Australians not to travel to the region since October 19.
