The UK deployed hundreds of soldiers to Cyprus to assist its citizens in leaving Lebanon amid the escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. The British government has urged its nationals in Lebanon to leave the country immediately.
The UK Foreign Office stated that while emergency plans are being put in place, around 700 troops supported by a border force will be moved to Cyprus within the next few hours.
Additionally, the ministry noted that the Royal Air Force has transport aircraft on standby, ready to provide support if necessary.
British Defense Secretary John Healey emphasized the urgency, saying, “The events of recent hours and days have shown how dangerous this situation is, which is why our message is clear: British nationals should leave now.”
Meanwhile, Lebanese Foreign Minister Abdullah Bou Habib announced on Tuesday that the number of Lebanese displaced by the current escalation between Israel and Hezbollah is “approaching half a million.”
Lebanon’s Health Minister Firas Abiad also reported that Israeli airstrikes on southern and eastern Lebanon have killed 558 people and injured more than 1,800, including 50 children and 94 women. This marks the highest death toll in a single day since the 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah.
