The United States Embassy in Beirut has reportedly begun the evacuation of a number of its employees on Monday, February 23, 2026. According to diplomatic sources and local reports from Lebanese broadcaster LBCI, the measure was taken as a "precaution" following a rapid escalation in regional security threats.
Precautionary Drawdown
While the embassy has not yet released an official public statement detailing the exact number of personnel involved, eyewitnesses and media sources confirmed the departure of staff members via Beirut’s Rafik Hariri International Airport. This move follows a series of heightened security alerts in the Middle East and concerns over potential retaliatory strikes involving regional actors.
Heightened Security Context
The evacuation comes amid a volatile security landscape. Only last week, Israeli drone strikes were reported near the Lebanese-Syrian border, and speculation has been mounting regarding direct confrontations between U.S. forces and regional groups. Sources close to the mission suggest that the drawdown primarily affects non-essential personnel and family members of diplomats.
U.S. Citizens Advised to Remain Vigilant
Following the drawdown, the U.S. State Department’s travel advisory for Lebanon remains at "Level 4: Do Not Travel." U.S. citizens currently in the country are being urged to monitor local news closely and enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for emergency updates.
The U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon, Michel Issa, is reportedly remaining in Beirut to manage embassy operations alongside a core team of essential staff.
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