Turkey has commenced the evacuation of its citizens from Lebanon as the conflict intensifies, marked by Israeli airstrikes and ground operations. Two Turkish naval vessels, TCG Bayraktar and TCG Sancaktar, are facilitating this operation, having delivered 300 tons of humanitarian aid to Beirut before returning with approximately 2,500 evacuees.
Key Takeaways
- Turkey is evacuating around 2,000 citizens from Lebanon due to escalating violence.
- The operation involves two naval ships that also delivered humanitarian aid.
- Evacuees expressed fears for their safety amid the ongoing conflict.
Background of the Evacuation
The decision to evacuate Turkish citizens comes in response to the deteriorating security situation in Lebanon, where Israeli forces have intensified their military actions against Hezbollah. The Turkish Foreign Ministry announced that the evacuation would take place on October 9, 2024, with two navy ships departing from Mersin, Turkey, to Beirut.
Humanitarian Aid Delivered
Upon arrival in Beirut, the Turkish vessels unloaded essential supplies, including:
- Beds
- Tents
- Blankets
- Food parcels
- Kitchenware
- Hygiene kits
This aid aims to support the Lebanese population affected by the ongoing conflict, as stated by Turkish officials.
Evacuation Process
The evacuation process began late Wednesday, with evacuees boarding the TCG Bayraktar and TCG Sancaktar. Many of those leaving expressed their fears and frustrations about the situation in Lebanon. One evacuee, Issa Malak, highlighted the dire conditions, stating, "There is no bread here. There is no future in Lebanon."
Safety Concerns Among Evacuees
The evacuees, including Turkish citizens and their families, voiced their concerns about safety. Many reported hearing bombings near their homes, prompting their decision to leave. Zehra Cibbin, a Lebanese-Turkish citizen, described her experience, saying, "They bombed the street below our house. From that moment on, it was over for me."
Future Plans for Evacuations
Turkey’s government is prepared to conduct further evacuations if necessary. Officials are also considering charter flights to repatriate citizens who may still be in Lebanon. The Turkish Ambassador to Lebanon emphasized the dual purpose of the operation: to provide humanitarian aid and ensure the safe return of Turkish citizens.
Conclusion
As the conflict in Lebanon escalates, Turkey’s proactive measures to evacuate its citizens reflect the growing concerns for safety in the region. The ongoing humanitarian efforts underscore the need for international support as the situation continues to develop.
Sources
- Turkey begins evacuation of citizens from Lebanon amid escalating conflict, Bianet.
- Turkey evacuates citizens from Lebanon by ship amid safety concerns, Duvar English.
- Turkey says will evacuate citizens from Lebanon on Wednesday | The Daily Star, The Daily Star.
- Turkey’s navy starts to evacuate its citizens from Beirut as Israel battles Hezbollah | AP News, AP News.
- Turkey’s navy begins evacuating its citizens from Beirut as Israel strikes Hezbollah | The Times of Israel, The Times of Israel.
