Canada is grappling with the urgent task of evacuate its citizens from Lebanon amid escalated Israeli military operations against the Hezbollah militia. On October 1, 2024, the Canadian government announced its reservation of 800 seats across commercial flights to facilitate the return of its nationals stranded in this increasingly dangerous Middle Eastern region.
Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly, addressing the precarious situation, stated on X, "The security situation in Lebanon is becoming increasingly dangerous and volatile." This stark warning underscored the urgency for Canadians still present to leave as soon as possible. Approximately 45,000 Canadians are reported to be residing in Lebanon, and efforts to facilitate their safe passage are ramping up as airstrikes intensify.
Joly called for citizens currently situated in Lebanon to take immediate advantage of the flight opportunities, emphasizing, "If you are offered a seat, take it now." She also highlighted the availability of loans for those who need financial assistance to cover travel costs. So far, the Canadian military has also stationed emergency resources nearby, particularly in Cyprus, as contingency plans should commercial flights be disrupted.
The situation escalated dramatically when Israeli airstrikes, which claimed 95 lives, including civilians, targeted various regions within Lebanon. The conflict has rapidly intensified following Israel's assassination of top Hezbollah commander Hassan Nasrallah. On the other hand, UN officials report over 200,000 individuals displaced within Lebanon and some fleeing to Syria to escape the onslaught.
Despite the government's appeals, reports indicate less than one-third of the Canadians, when offered seats, actually decided to flee. Only about 300 have left Beirut on government-arranged commercial flights, which included destinations such as Istanbul. Emergency discussions were scheduled within Canada’s House of Commons to deliberate on the methods and extent of its evacuation response.
Joly reiterated the stakes involved, stating, "If you are Canadian citizen, you must leave now." The increasing hostilities, drawing attention away from the situation in Gaza, have triggered concerns about the wider regional instability as Iran’s backing of Hezbollah has returned to the forefront.
Just days ago, Iran retaliated against recent Israeli actions and struck approximately 200 ballistic missiles at Israel, inflaming tensions across the geopolitical chessboard. Canadian officials have stressed the need for prompt departures, fearing future restrictions on flights and access to ports should the crisis deepen.
The Canadian government is tackling logistical hurdles as they secure flight options. Still, there has been dissatisfaction echoed from some Canadians about how their government has handled their evacuation. Fatima Haidar recounted her harrowing experience trying to leave with her family, describing their 14-hour trek to Beirut, compounded by dreadful traffic and repeated flight cancellations. She expressed discontent with the embassy's assistance and the suggestion to consult travel agents for up-to-date safety guidance.
Global Affairs Canada confirmed they have been actively reaching out to citizens through their Registry of Canadians Abroad program, which has around 20,000 participants registered. Further, officials indicated their intake forms yielded around 4,000 responses, but only 1,700 of those registrants were deemed eligible for potential evacuation options.
Meanwhile, Defence Minister Bill Blair acknowledged the pressing nature of the evacuation efforts, proclaiming, "If there is escalation of violence, we know we will be required to do more to assist Canadians." He noted around 200 personnel were already positioned within the region to respond, with emphasis on utilizing commercial flights as the primary exit strategy.
The strain on diplomatic relations is palpable as international partners observe the potential for large-scale evacuations. Canada’s military resources remain on standby should the crisis evolve unexpectedly. The government is also considering additional flights if current arrangements prove insufficient, providing some relief to citizens who remain cautious of their safety.
Citizens like Jade Youssef arrived safely back to Canada but expressed concerns over their families left behind. His stories of desperate attempts to secure tickets only continued to highlight the grim reality many face as air raids persist.
Joly and Blair remain optimistic about their government’s efforts and call for international dialogue to enact peaceful resolutions to the conflicts entwined with Israel and Hezbollah. Their message emphasizes not just the need for action but also the hope for de-escalation. The situation continues to develop, with the fate of many Canadians hanging in the balance as they navigate their safety amid the unprecedented trauma of the Middle East's current conflicts.
