Lufthansa Suspends Flights to Lebanon

Lufthansa has announced the suspension of five routes to and from Beirut until July 30, citing “an abundance of caution” due to escalating tensions between Israel and the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah. This decision follows a wave of flight cancellations by various airlines, including Turkish Airlines, Aegean Airlines, Ethiopian Air, and Middle East Airlines, as fears of a potential war intensify. The U.S. State Department has also advised travelers to reconsider their plans to visit Lebanon, highlighting the growing unease in the region. The situation escalated dramatically after a tragic incident on Saturday, where a rocket attack in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights resulted in the deaths of 12 children. Israel and the United States have attributed the attack to Hezbollah, which has vehemently denied any involvement. In response, Israel has vowed to retaliate, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government authorized to determine the timing and nature of their response. On Monday, reports emerged of an Israeli drone strike in southern Lebanon, resulting in two fatalities and three injuries, further heightening tensions. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant emphasized that Hezbollah, viewed as a proxy for Iran, would face consequences for its actions. The ongoing conflict has raised concerns about regional stability and the safety of travelers in Lebanon. As airlines adjust their operations in light of these developments, the international community watches closely, hoping for a de-escalation of hostilities in the volatile region.