Britain has mobilised around 700 troops to Cyprus, preparing for the evacuation of its nationals from Lebanon. This decision comes amid escalating clashes between Israel and Hezbollah, raising concerns about a broader regional conflict. Aircraft and transport helicopters are on standby, ready to assist if needed.
Urgent Call for British Nationals to Leave
Defence Secretary John Healey made it clear that the situation in Lebanon is volatile, urging British nationals to leave immediately. “Events in the past hours and days have demonstrated how volatile this situation is,” Healey stated, reinforcing the urgency of the evacuation.
Fighting Between Israel and Hezbollah Intensifies
The conflict between Israel and Lebanon’s Hezbollah has significantly escalated, with Hezbollah firing rockets into Israel in support of Hamas. Israel, shifting focus to the northern front, has launched retaliatory strikes that have claimed 569 lives in Lebanon, including 50 children, according to the Lebanese health minister. Thousands of people in southern Lebanon have been displaced and are seeking shelter in schools and other facilities.
UK Prepared for Emergency Response
In addition to deploying troops, the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) has contingency plans in place for evacuation support, with the air force on standby. The mobilisation underscores the UK’s commitment to ensuring the safety of its citizens during this escalating crisis.