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Lebanon travel advice

FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE News Release issued by The Government News Network on 9 May 2008

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office today changed its Travel Advice for Lebanon. Due to ongoing violent clashes between rival groups in Beirut, the closure of Beirut International Airport and the blockage of some other major roads we now advise against all travel to Lebanon. The relevant summary points now read:

"We advise against all travel to Lebanon. The violent exchanges on the streets of Beirut and elsewhere between opposition and pro-government groups, which began on 7 May, continue to pose a danger to bystanders. If you are currently in Lebanon you should exercise particular vigilance at this time and wherever possible avoid areas where there has been fighting in recent days. You should ensure that you are content with your personal security arrangements and keep yourself up to date with developments, including by regularly monitoring this travel advice. See the political section of this advice for more details.

You may find difficulty in travelling into or out of Lebanon. Beirut International Airport is currently inaccessible. The road to the Al Masna crossing (to Damascus) has been blocked at frequent intervals in the last two days. The road to the north (via Tripoli) and the northern crossings at Arida and Aboudieh remain clear. Roads to Syria are also subject to closure. British passport holders wishing to leave Lebanon can purchase a visa for Syria at the Lebanon/Syria border. Please seek local advice before attempting to leave by this means. See the Political Situation and Local Travel sections of this advice for more details"

Notes for Editors

Full details of the revised travel advice for Lebanon are available on the Foreign Office website (http://www.fco.gov.uk).

FCO Travel Advice can also be obtained on the following telephone number: 0845 850 2829.

FCO Travel Advice is kept under constant review. This advice is based on our latest assessment of the situation in Lebanon

Press Office, Downing Street (West), London SW1A 2AL