U.S. Embassy Urges Americans Who Wish to Depart Lebanon to Do So Now:

Media Notice
Released by the U.S. Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon

The U.S. Embassy, with support from the Department of State and the Department of Defense, has helped more than 10,000 persons depart Lebanon since July 16, 2006. At this time there is no wait for U.S. Government-assisted boat transport out of Lebanon, and all persons who are able to travel by ship are encouaged to do so. Those requesting helicopter transport may experience a wait of a number of days due to the scarcity of available slots.

These assisted departures will continue on Sunday, July 23. Americans traveling should proceed directly to the departure processing center at Dbayeh Bridge in Beirut. Processing will take place at the Mobile Forces Barracks (Marina Khoury facing the water station pump near Dbayeh Port. As large numbers of people may gather at the departure processing center, Americans should be prepared for a long wait. They should bring supplies of food and water and wear comfortable shoes and protection from the sun.

The U.S. Department of State believes the majority of American citizens who wish to leave Lebanon have already departed. After Sunday, July 23, the opportunity to leave with the assistance of the U.S. government will diminish.
American citizens should not delay if they wish to depart Lebanon. The U.S. Embassy in Beirut is in contact with some American citizens in the South Lebanon who have had difficulty in getting to Beirut. These citizens should remain in contact with the U.S. Embassy for further guidance. ...

Americans wishing to depart Lebanon should monitor the local radio 105.5 FM and the U.S. Embassy Beirut internet website, http://lebanon.usembassy.gov/ for the latest on assistance in departing Lebanon. ...

Update: U.S. Embassy urges departing Americans to proceed directly to Dbayeh processing center.

Posted by Laura at July 23, 2006 09:04 AM