Australians urged to avoid Lebanon as war risk escalates
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Australians have been advised to avoid travelling to Lebanon, while those in the country are urged to leave as soon as possible, as the threat of wider conflict in the region grows.
The federal government's Smartraveller website updated its advice for Lebanon to "do not travel" this week.
"We continue to advise do not travel to Lebanon due to the volatile security situation and the risk of the security situation deteriorating further," the website said.
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"Australians in Lebanon who wish to leave, should leave now while commercial flights remain available.
"If the security situation deteriorates and there is armed conflict, it's likely that Beirut airport will close at short notice."
Hezbollah and Israeli armed forces have been swapping attacks in Lebanon's south since the opening phases of Israel's invasion of Gaza last year.
A damaged Israeli military position that was targeted by Hezbollah fighters in Israel.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu earlier this week indicated he could direct further Israeli forces to the Lebanese border.
"There's a possibility of an increase in armed conflict that could affect wider areas of Lebanon," the Smartraveller website said.
"Daily military action has increased in southern Lebanon in recent weeks, including rocket and missile fire, as well as airstrikes.
"The conflict could continue to escalate quickly or spread to other areas in Lebanon, including Beirut, with little notice."
Australians in Lebanon have been urged to register at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and keep their details up to date.
But they have been warned that if they do not leave soon, the government may not be able to help them get out.
Anybody needing emergency consular assistance should contact +61 2 6261 3305 (if they are overseas) or 1300 555 135 (if they are in Australia).
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