Lebanon

Overview

There are ongoing exchanges of mortar and artillery fire in South Lebanon, on the border with Israel, it is an active conflict area. Southern Beirut has also been impacted. There continues to be regular missile, and drone strikes which have resulted in deaths and serious injuries of civilians. Tensions remain high and the security situation could deteriorate further with little warning. We continue to advise that New Zealanders do not travel to Lebanon. If you are currently in Lebanon, we encourage you to leave now via commercial options.

New Zealanders in Lebanon should be aware that commercial options for departing the country could be severely disrupted or cancelled at short notice. Airports and airlines may pause or cancel operations at short notice. If you choose not to leave while commercial flights are operating, be prepared to shelter in place for an extended period. Find out more on our violence and conflict page.

If you choose to stay in Lebanon, prioritise your safety. Monitor developments closely and follow local authorities’ advice. Stay aware of your environment and avoid government, military or energy infrastructure, including oil production facilities.

Road transportation could also be severely disrupted. New Zealanders who wish to depart Lebanon are responsible for their own departure.

If the security situation in the Middle East deteriorates, travel disruptions should be expected. Monitor the media to stay informed about current events in your travel destination.

Lebanon is experiencing a severe economic crisis. Fuel, medicine and food may be hard to get. Many hospitals and other medical services are affected by electricity shortages.

New Zealand has no diplomatic presence in Lebanon, so the New Zealand Government’s ability to help New Zealand citizens there is limited. 

Other things New Zealanders travelling or living in Lebanon should be aware of are: 

• Border areas – there have been incidents of violence near the Syrian border with Lebanon, and there are ongoing tensions in the area near the border with Israel. 
• Civil unrest and political tension – the political situation in Lebanon is unpredictable and there are frequent demonstrations and conflicts. These can be violent and cause roads to be blocked. 
• Terrorism – attacks could happen anywhere, including places visited by foreigners. 
• Crime - foreigners in Lebanon have been kidnapped for ransom. Watch out for violent crime, such as armed robbery and sexual assault, and petty crime. 

New Zealanders travelling or living in Lebanon should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air. 

See detailed travel advice below.

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