ISTANBUL

The US Department of State updated on Saturday its travel advisory for Lebanon, asking the families of diplomats to leave the country.

The advisory said it ordered the departure of non-mission-employed eligible family members (EFMs) and authorized departure for mission-employed EFMs and non-essential US direct hire employees.

This decision was made due to the "volatile and unpredictable security situation in Beirut."

The advisory cautioned US citizens to leave Lebanon while commercial options are still available, emphasizing that "commercial flights are available, but at reduced capacity."

It warned of heightened risks due to ongoing conflicts, including “cross-border exchanges of fire between Hizballah and Israel" and recent airstrikes in Beirut.

The State Department urged those who remain in Lebanon to be prepared to shelter in place and to avoid areas near the borders with Syria.

US citizens are reminded to “not travel to Lebanon due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, unexploded landmines, and the risk of armed conflict," the advisory said.

Tensions are at an all-time high as Israel continues its extensive air raids in Lebanon. It has assassinated Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and a number of group’s top commanders in Beirut. Hundreds of civilians have also been killed and thousands more forced to flee their homes.