public annoucements and warden messages

U.S. Embassy Beirut Warden Message

July 31, 2006

The July 30 Israeli bombing of an apartment building in Qana in southern Lebanon led to an attack by demonstrators on UN offices in central Beirut. Demonstrators also called for a protest outside the U.S. Embassy in Awkar. American citizens should strictly avoid any areas where demonstrations are possible and exercise caution if within the vicinity of any demonstrations. American citizens are also urged to avoid non-essential travel in Lebanon. The U.S. Embassy in Beirut is maintaining normal hours of operation in order to carry out vital political, humanitarian and consular duties. All non-essential travel by official Americans from the embassy compound continues to be restricted.

The U.S. Embassy is concerned for the personal safety of American citizens due to the hostilities in Lebanon and urges Americans remaining in Lebanon to depart.

For the latest security information, Americans should regularly monitor the Department’s web site at http://travel.state.gov where the current Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, Travel Warnings and Public Announcements can be found. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S., or, for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

Americans living or traveling in Lebanon are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department’s travel registration website, https://travelregistration.state.gov, so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security within Lebanon. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.