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