[jch10]

I would think that State would have to have assurances from Lebanon that the evacuators and evacuees would be safe before they made any moves. Evidently, France, Italy, and others, are allies to that bunch and got immediate action on their requests. They will wait as long as possible to make the US look bad, at home and abroad.
I pray for the evacuees but know that the govt is doing all it can, as quickly as it can. It is not to their advantage to appear sluggish and inept at this point.
There is also the problem of making sure no terrorists slip in with the evacuees. Passports and personal records must be verified....try that for 25,000 people....not so easy,huh?

[A CA Guy]

I would think that State would have to have assurances from Lebanon that the evacuates and evacuees would be safe before they made any moves. Evidently, France, Italy, and others, are allies to that bunch and got immediate action on their requests. They will wait as long as possible to make the US look bad, at home and abroad.

What kind of assurances do you get that you will get out safe in the middle of a bank robbery or a car jacking?
It is a totally unstable area now and no one can guarantee anything.

French, Italy and others already had arrangement with boats in place and the companies with the boats knew they were not at that much risk with them as they would be Americans.

Part of the problem is ships don't want to go in now, especially for Americans.

Prayers are the best think, I agree with you.