July 16, 2006
The U.S. Department of State continues to work with the U.S. Department of Defense on a plan to help American citizens depart Lebanon. To assist with the planning of this operation, planning and security assessment teams arrived via helicopter at the U.S. Embassy in Awkar, July 16, at approximately 3:00 p.m.. The arrival of the teams is an important first step in facilitating the safe departure of Americans who want to leave Lebanon. The U.S. Government is making the arrangements necessary to provide secure transportation for American citizens who wish to depart Lebanon. The teams that arrived on the afternoon of July 16 are performing that planning role, and have no other mission. Additional information, as it becomes available, will be released via the media, Embassy warden announcements, and on the Embassy website. The Department of State continues to work around the clock to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens. The U.S. Embassy encourages Americans to register with the U.S. Embassy, preferably on line at http://lebanon.usembassy.gov or by fax at +961 4 544 209 or +961 4 544 037. The U.S. Embassy reaffirms the firm, enduring and non-negotiable commitment of the United States to Lebanon and the Lebanese people.
Whoo-HA!!! This was just recently posted to the Lebanese Embassy website. Finally, things appear to be moving!
Oh, thank God! Please stay in touch with us as much as you can and let us know when you're out.
Great to hear fom you!
Prayers continue.
GE
The Associated Press
BEIRUT, Lebanon — U.S. security teams arrived by helicopter Sunday at the U.S. Embassy in Beirut to start planning the evacuation of Americans from Lebanon.
Two helicopters flew in from over the Mediterranean and landed on the embassy grounds, located on a fortified hilltop in the north Beirut suburb of Aukar, witnesses said.
"The arrival of the teams is an important first step in facilitating the safe departure of Americans who want to leave Lebanon," the U.S. Embassy said in a statement.
It said the teams would arrange for "secure transportation for American citizens who wish to depart Lebanon." There are an estimated 25,000 Americans living or working in Lebanon, but U.S. officials said they assume that far fewer would choose to leave.
The United States said Saturday it was working on a plan to evacuate American citizens from Lebanon to the neighboring island of Cyprus.
Israeli airstrikes targeting runways have closed down Beirut's international airport. Israel also imposed a naval blockade on the country and has made road travel dangerous by targeting the main highway between Lebanon and neighboring Syria.
You've been on my mind. I pray for your safe return. I happened upon this international number for Americans who need assistance in getting out of Lebanon. 0-1-202-501-4444.
God Speed your return rebel!
" Finally, things appear to be moving!"
Good news and good luck.
Please keep us informed, when it is safe for you.