An image taken from the video posted by Donald Trump on his Truth Social network after the strikes against Iran, on Feb. 28, 2026. An image taken from the video posted by Donald Trump on his Truth Social network after the strikes against Iran, on Feb. 28, 2026.
The United States on Saturday urged its citizens to “leave Lebanon now while commercial options remain available” and advised Americans “not to travel” to the country, according to an “urgent” message posted on the U.S. Embassy’s website in Beirut.
“The U.S. Embassy strongly encourages American citizens in southern Lebanon, near the Syrian border, in refugee camps, and in the Dahieh area of Beirut [Beirut southern suburbs] to leave these areas without delay,” the statement said. “The commercial airport remains open and flights are available, but they may be canceled at any time,” it added.
The embassy also urged “Americans who choose not to leave the country to develop emergency plans in case the situation deteriorates.” “These alternative plans should not depend on assistance from the U.S. government for departure or evacuation. We recommend that American citizens who choose to remain be prepared to shelter in place if the situation worsens,” it said.
On Feb. 23, 2026, the U.S. State Department ordered the departure of families and non-essential U.S. government personnel from Lebanon.
Lebanese airspace remains open, as confirmed by Prime Minister Nawaf Salam and Transport Minister Fayez Rassamny. “Middle East Airlines continues to operate its flights,” Salam said, noting that Beirut’s airport, the country’s only international airport, remains open.
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