Oct 3, 2024 — With violence intensifying in the Middle East, Balkan governments are swiftly implementing evacuation plans for their citizens in Lebanon. Israeli strikes on Hezbollah targets have heightened tensions, prompting fears of broader conflict.
Bulgaria has organized two evacuation flights to Sofia, with the first carrying 89 passengers on September 30 and the second 80 passengers on October 1. The Bulgarian Foreign Ministry reported approximately 400 citizens in Lebanon, but less than half have sought evacuation. “The situation is very dynamic and very dangerous,” said Transport Minister Krassimira Stoyanova.
In Serbia, Ambassador Milan Trojanovic advised citizens in Lebanon to relocate to safer areas or leave the country. Approximately 115 Serbian citizens and their immediate families are registered at the embassy in Beirut.
Croatia has urged its 150 passport-holders in Lebanon to evacuate, with only 14 individuals requesting assistance so far. The Croatian Foreign Ministry is monitoring the situation closely in collaboration with other EU member states.
Greece has dispatched a transport aircraft to Lebanon for 60 Greek and Greek-Cypriot citizens, while two more planes remain on standby. Approximately 3,500 Greeks reside in Lebanon.
Turkey is preparing to evacuate nearly 20,000 citizens in Lebanon, with alternative plans for air or sea transport. No evacuation plans have been announced for Turkish citizens in Iran.
Bosnia and Herzegovina has received requests for assistance from only two citizens, while North Macedonia has yet to report any calls for help. The Montenegrin Foreign Ministry has not confirmed the status of its citizens in Lebanon or Iran.
As tensions rise, Balkan governments are working to ensure the safety of their citizens, navigating a volatile geopolitical landscape.
