After pushing hundreds of its nationals to flee Lebanon, Sweden said on Saturday that it was closing its embassy in Beirut due to concerns that the violence in Gaza may spread to other parts of the region.
The regional tensions surrounding the Gaza war have increased as a result of the Israeli-attributed killings of leaders of Hamas and Hezbollah this week.
Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom told Swedish Radio, “The foreign ministry is planning a temporary relocation of its embassy and has instructed its staff to leave Beirut and travel to Cyprus.”
“Initially for the month of August but may be extended depending on the security situation,” was the stated rationale behind the decision.
“The ministry is keeping a careful eye on developments,” he declared.
Up to 10,000 Swedish people may have visited Lebanon this summer, despite a travel advisory that has been in effect for the nation since October 2023, according to the foreign ministry.
“I implore Swedes residing in Lebanon to depart the nation as soon as possible, using any means at all,” he declared.
Also Read:
UAE Finds “Terror-Linked” Group Founded by International Fugitives
