Factbox: Actions Taken by Countries to Evacuate Nationals from Lebanon – Reuters

NICOSIA (Reuters) – The recent intensification of border conflicts between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon has prompted Western nations to revise their evacuation contingency plans for the region.

Cyprus, being the closest EU member state to the Middle East, is expected to serve as a primary hub. In 2006, during the previous Hezbollah-Israel conflict, Cyprus successfully processed around 60,000 evacuees.

Turkey has also extended its facilities to aid in potential evacuations.

Most operations appear to be focused on maritime evacuations, allowing for the transport of larger groups. However, the specifics will depend on the evolving security situation. Traveling to Cyprus by sea takes approximately 10 hours, while a flight from Beirut to Cyprus takes about 40 minutes.

Here are some updates on evacuation plans:

AUSTRALIA
Authorities have developed contingency plans that may involve sea evacuations but have advised around 15,000 Australian citizens in Lebanon to depart while Beirut airport remains operational.

CANADA
Reports indicate that Canada is collaborating with Australia for sea evacuations. The plan involves hiring a commercial vessel to facilitate the transportation of 1,000 people daily.

FRANCE
France has been advising its citizens against traveling to Lebanon and has maintained evacuation plans for several months, though no formal evacuation order has been issued. Current plans revolve around Cyprus and the Beirut airport, with discussions also underway for evacuations through Turkey. A French warship and a helicopter carrier are positioned in the region but would require days to reach Lebanon.

GREECE
The Greek foreign ministry has called on its citizens to leave Lebanon and avoid travel to the country, with a frigate on standby for any necessary assistance.

UNITED KINGDOM
The UK government has urged its nationals to leave Lebanon immediately and has deployed approximately 700 troops to Cyprus to enhance its military presence in the area, which already includes two Royal Navy ships and two military bases.

UNITED STATES
The U.S. has sent several troops to Cyprus to prepare for various scenarios, including the potential evacuation of American citizens from Lebanon.

PORTUGAL
Prime Minister Luis Montenegro has also advised against traveling to Lebanon and confirmed that the country has plans to evacuate its citizens in coordination with EU partner nations.