The Department of Foreign Affairs is strongly advising all Irish citizens currently in Lebanon to "leave now while commercial options remain available," while also strongly advising against all travel to the country at this time.
The advice comes as Israel said its forces hit five squads in south Lebanon preparing attacks.
Lebanon's Iranian-backed Hezbollah group said 42 of its fighters had been killed since border clashes with Israel resumed after the Gaza war erupted earlier this month.
Israeli-Hezbollah clashes have unnerved civilians on both sides of the border.
"Owing to the ongoing conflict in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories, the situation in Lebanon remains highly volatile," the department said in a statement this evening.
"In light of the unpredictability of the situation, events could escalate with very little warning. This could affect exit routes out of Lebanon."
🚨Lebanon Travel Advice Update
— Irish Foreign Ministry (@dfatirl) October 25, 2023
We have reviewed and revised our Travel Advice for Lebanon 🇱🇧
Irish citizens are strongly advised to leave now while commercial options remain available.https://t.co/Zr2Ma2YF0X@dfatravelwise @IRLEmbCairo
The department said that citizens should be aware that, in the event that the political or security situation deteriorates, they are likely to be very limited in the assistance that they can provide.
"Citizens should not rely on evacuation options being possible if commercial options become unavailable," it added.
If for any reason an Irish citizen cannot leave Lebanon, the department advises them to exercise "extreme caution in your movements and put contingency plans in place to leave Lebanon as soon as possible".
Citizens should also ensure their documentation, including passports, is up to date.
"If you are an Irish citizen with a family member who requires a visa for travel to Ireland, an application for a visa to enter Ireland should be made online here without delay," the statement added.
"Citizens should avoid all gatherings and demonstrations, remain vigilant and follow the instructions of local authorities."
Irish citizens in Lebanon who have not already done so are advised to register with the Embassy of Ireland in Cairo.
"If you need assistance, you can contact the Irish Embassy in Cairo, Egypt. If you are an Irish citizen and in need of emergency assistance outside of normal office hours, then you can contact us on the following emergency number: +20 1274443942."
A spokesperson for the Department of Foreign Affairs said that the decision is "in line with a number of European and other partners".
A spokesperson for the Department of Defence said that Irish troops serving with UNIFIL will remain at their posts.
