“In addition to the troops, the landing ship RFA Cardigan Bay and the warship HMS Duncan are in the eastern Mediterranean to support allies with humanitarian requirements, and the Royal Air Force has also put helicopters on standby to transport personnel,” the government said in a statement on its official website.
“Officials have been sent to the Middle East – including Lebanon – to provide additional support to embassy staff as part of the government’s preparatory planning for a range of potential conflict scenarios, and as regional tensions escalate,” the statement said, adding that “consular experts will provide assistance with strategic planning and respond to queries from British citizens to ensure they receive the help and advice they need.”
“Our armed forces will always support British citizens around the world and enhance regional stability with their professionalism and courage,” said British Defence Secretary John Healey.
“I told Middle East leaders this week that de-escalation must be the focus in the region, and we urge everyone to reduce tensions,” he added, noting that “there must be an end to the fighting, an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all hostages, and a diplomatic path to peace and security.”
The British government also urged its citizens in Lebanon on Saturday to leave the country immediately, amid fears of a full-scale war between Israel and the Lebanese factions movement, and the outbreak of a wider regional conflict.
Source: Agencies
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2024-08-05 18:18:53