Norway Urges Citizens to Leave Lebanon as Conflict Escalates

Oslo is advising all Norwegian citizens in Lebanon to depart the country as the conflict between Hezbollah and Israel intensifies. The move comes amid growing concerns over the escalating hostilities and a deteriorating security situation, with Norway also facilitating the evacuation of vulnerable citizens.

Escalating Conflict and Travel Warning

The Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has raised its travel advisory for Lebanon to the highest level, strongly advising against all travel and urging current residents to leave as soon as possible . The security situation is described as “unmanageable and serious,” limiting the Ministry’s ability to provide assistance to Norwegians remaining in the country.

Evacuation Assistance for Vulnerable Citizens

In response to the escalating crisis, Norway is organizing a flight from Muscat, Oman, to bring home Norwegian families with children, pregnant women, and individuals with medical needs. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is contacting those eligible for the flight to provide further information and assistance . Norwegian airline, Norwegian, is collaborating on the evacuation effort, having previously assisted with similar flights to Israel.

Government Response and Concerns

Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre acknowledged the anxiety among Norwegians in the region, stating that the government understands the difficulties faced by citizens caught in the conflict . Emergency teams have been deployed to Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and Muscat to provide support.

Call for De-escalation and Political Solution

Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities, urging Hezbollah to lay down its weapons and Israel to respect Lebanon’s sovereignty . Norway stands ready to provide humanitarian assistance and support efforts to locate a lasting political solution to the conflict, emphasizing the right of the Lebanese people to live in peace and security.

Criticism from the Progressive Party

The Progressive Party (Frp) has criticized the government’s response, demanding greater efforts to assist Norwegians in the region. Frp leader Sylvi Listhaug has called for the government to charter planes to bring Norwegian citizens home, citing the example of over 20 other countries that have already undertaken similar evacuations.

Ongoing Monitoring and Future Assistance

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is continuing to monitor the situation closely and is exploring options for additional flights to the region. They are also in contact with European partners to identify potential vacant seats on existing flights. Approximately 1,500 Norwegians are registered as being in Dubai.