Citing the current violence in Lebanon Australian government has asked its citizens to avoid visiting country as far as possible.
The government has called travelers to avoid public protests and most violent areas. Notably, yesterday protestors led by Hezbollah burned tires and cars and clashed with government supporters, leaving Beirut paralyzed and regions across the Lebanon.
According to the reports, 3 people have been killed and 133 were injured in the violent clashes between rival groups. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has issued new travel warning for the nation. In its appeal to nation, DFAT urged citizens to reconsider their itinerary to Lebanon.
DFAT said in a statement:
You should avoid any large gatherings and demonstrations as these could turn violent. There have been violent clashes between rival groups in different parts of the city.
The Australian Embassy in Beirut may close at short notice due to ongoing demonstrations and concerns about the security situation in the vicinity of the embassy.
Meanwhile, US has condemned the violence in Lebanon and calls on all parties to settle their internal differences peacefully and constitutional means to debate the political issues before them, and to exercise restraint.
Via: TheAge
