Tuesday October 8, 2024
Addis Ababa (HOL) - The Ethiopian government has begun evacuating its nationals from Lebanon as Israeli airstrikes and ground operations continue in southern Lebanon.
On October 7, 2024, 51 Ethiopians safely arrived at Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa, following a coordinated effort between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Women and Social Affairs, and the Ethiopian Disaster Risk Management Commission.
Ambassador Nebiat Getachew, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, highlighted Ethiopia's commitment to its citizens abroad, noting that the evacuation was part of the government's citizen-centered diplomatic efforts.
"Our primary focus has been on the well-being of Ethiopians in Lebanon, and the return of these 51 individuals is a direct result of these efforts," he stated.
The situation in Lebanon has worsened in recent weeks due to an intensified Israeli military campaign targeting Hezbollah, including airstrikes and ground operations in southern Lebanon.
The escalation has impacted numerous foreign nationals, including hundreds of Somali students stranded in Beirut due to flight suspensions and blocked evacuation routes. Somali student Hamda Rageh reported that international flights have been suspended, leaving her and others trapped as the conflict continues.