Friday, August 2, 2024 Despite escalating tensions in the Middle East, Lebanon experienced a notable rise in tourist arrivals in 2023. The country welcomed 3,457,297 visitors, marking a significant increase from the 2,889,610 visitors in 2022. This growth signals a recovery from the declines triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic crisis that began in 2019.
In December 2023 alone, 261,557 tourists visited Lebanon, up from 151,846 in November. Travel Advisory Amid Middle East Tensions Amid increasing regional tensions, the Indian Embassy in Lebanon issued a travel advisory urging Indian nationals to limit their movements. This advisory came shortly after the Israel Defence Force (IDF) confirmed strikes against the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah.
Additionally, the advisory followed the death of Hamas’ political head Ismail Haniyeh in Iran, raising concerns about a wider conflict in the Middle East. The Indian consulate advised nationals to avoid any ‘non-essential travel’ to Lebanon. Recent Conflicts and Advisory Details The recent surge in Hezbollah attacks against Israel has heightened the risk of conflict.
Notably, a devastating rocket strike by Hezbollah on July 27 in Majdal Shams, Golan Heights, resulted in the deaths of 12 children. This escalation prompted the U.S.
Department of State to issue a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory for Lebanon, highlighting severe risks such as crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, unexploded landmines, and pot.