The State Department of Diaspora Affairs has called on Kenyans in Lebanon to urgently register for evacuation as the threat of war looms. Several countries have advised their citizens to leave Lebanon due to growing fears of a broader conflict in the Middle East. This follows Iran's vow of "severe" retaliation against Israel, which it blames for the death of Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran on Wednesday. Concerns are rising that Hezbollah, an Iran-backed group based in Lebanon, may play a significant role in any retaliation, potentially provoking a serious Israeli response in Lebanon.
Hezbollah launched dozens of rockets at the town of Beit Hillel in northern Israel at around 00:25 local time on Sunday (22:25 BST Saturday). This occurred hours after Israel killed Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the department provided a link and emergency contacts to facilitate the registration process. "Urgently register with us through this link: https://tinyurl.com/2m9nw4ww or call +96590906719/+96171175006/+254114757002 for evacuation purposes," the department stated.
The department also advised those who can move to safer areas within Lebanon or leave the country to do so. Additionally, Kenyans with family members in Lebanon are encouraged to call the provided number (+254114757002) for coordinated safety measures. The department's offices at the Old Mutual Building, Ground floor along Upper Hill Road, are also available for assistance.
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"We are also requesting Kenyans in the Diaspora to help convey this information to as many people as possible, especially our brothers and sisters in Lebanon," the statement added.
For further updates and assistance, Kenyans are urged to follow the department's social media pages. The State Department for Diaspora Affairs assured Kenyans in the Diaspora that their safety is its top priority.