The Spanish government has outlined an evacuation plan for over 1,000 citizens currently in Lebanon, to be activated if the security situation worsens.
Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares urged citizens to leave via commercial flights still available. At the moment, the airport in Beirut remains operational. Ferry services to Cyprus, Turkey, and Greece are also an option. The plan was discussed following concerns about the escalating conflict in the region. Albares refrained from sharing specific details for security reasons. However, he emphasised that the plan will be activated when deemed necessary, in coordination with the Defence Ministry. Currently, no Spanish casualties have been reported.
Spanish citizens are ‘perfectly located and situated’
The Spanish colony in Beirut includes Spanish nationals, dual nationals, relatives of Spaniards and people in transit, including a dozen journalists. According to the minister, the Spanish Embassy in the country has “perfectly located and situated” the Spanish citizens. However, it is currently updating their addresses and contact telephone numbers in case of an evacuation.
Humanitarian aid for Lebanon
The Spanish government has increased its humanitarian support to Lebanon, contributing €1 million to the Red Cross and Red Crescent. Additionally, they are sending €150,000 worth of medical supplies and providing €200,000 for emergency medical services through the World Health Organisation.
“Middle East is heading toward a catastrophic situation”
Meanwhile, the United Nations has warned that the Middle East is heading toward a catastrophic situation due to the escalating conflict between Israel and Palestine. The conflict has led to a devastating humanitarian crisis, particularly in Gaza, with thousands of casualties and widespread displacement. UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for an immediate ceasefire, urging all parties to respect international humanitarian law. He also highlighted the dire need for humanitarian aid and warned of the broader regional destabilisation if the conflict continues.