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Government charters more Lebanon evacuation flights

More flights are being chartered by the government to evacuate Britons from Lebanon.

A “limited number” of flights to support British nationals to leave the country have been organised in response to the deteriorating security situation.

Additional flights are due to depart from Beirut-Rafic Hariri international airport from today after an initial charter left with 150 passengers on Wednesday. 

The flights will continue for as long as the security situation allows, according to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

A statement also said: “The UK continues to work with partners to increase capacity on commercial flights for British nationals. 

“Around 700 troops and Foreign Office and Home Office staff, including Border Force officers, have been deployed to Cyprus for contingency planning.

“British nationals who have registered their presence with the government will be sent details on how to request a seat. Those who have not already registered their presence in Lebanon are urged to do so immediately.

“British nationals and their dependants should not travel to the airport unless they have a seat booked on a plane.”

Foreign secretary David Lammy said: “Recent events have demonstrated the volatility of the situation in Lebanon.

“The safety of British nationals in Lebanon continues to be our number one priority. That’s why we are announcing additional chartered flights to help those who want to leave.

“I urge all British nationals still in Lebanon to register with the FCDO and leave the country immediately.”

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