Lebanon, Egypt, Jordan: What is the latest travel advice amid the Israel-Hamas war?

Israel launched a deadly attack on Lebanon this week as they attempt to eradicate the Hezbollah militant group in an escalation of their war with Hamas. 

The bombing resulted in the deaths of at least 700 people and European nationals are now being evacuated from Lebanon.

The UK and EU governments continue to advise against all travel to Lebanon while UK and EU nationals are urged to leave while commercial options remain available. 

Authorities also already warned against all but essential travel to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories.

Travellers should also exercise caution when visiting some areas of neighbouring or nearby countries. 

Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering a trip to Lebanon, Egypt or Jordan.

Lebanon, which lies to the north of Israel and shares a border, is now fully embroiled in the deepening Israel-Hamas conflict. 

On 17 and 18 September 2024, thousands of pagers and walkie-talkies intended for use by Hezbollah exploded simultaneously across the country resulting in the deaths of 42 people, including at least 12 civilians.

Now, strikes that began on Monday have killed more than 700 people in the country. 

The UK’s Foreign Office (FCDO) has now upgraded its guidelines for Lebanon, advising against all travel and urging Britons to leave the country. 

It warns that there are ongoing mortar and artillery exchanges and airstrikes in Lebanon, primarily on the boundary with Israel but also in parts of the Beqaa Valley and some other locations north of the Litani river. 

“Tensions are high and events could escalate with little warning, which could affect or limit exit routes out of Lebanon. In the event of deterioration in the political or security situation, commercial routes out of Lebanon