Posted on 07/18/2006 12:46:21 AM PDT by rebel_yell2
BEIRUT — Thousands of Americans whose vacations and business trips to Lebanon have degenerated with sickening speed into stints in a battle zone remained stranded here under Israeli bombardment Monday, their frustration and anger mounting because the U.S. government hasn't gotten them out faster.
Waiting around Beirut with bags packed and fingers crossed, U.S. citizens derided the embassy for busy phone lines, a lack of information and gnawing uncertainty over when and whether they will get out. Hundreds were expected to be shipped to Cyprus today, but how long the full evacuation will take remains uncertain.
(Excerpt) Read more at latimes.com ...
I don't buy it any longer, either.
I'd like to believe a FRiend, but it doesn't add up anymore. And the FRiend is placing the blame for his claimed situation on the U.S. and Israel. But since your post is so nice, I'll refrain from further criticism even though I disagree and now disbelieve him.
G'night. :>
You are clown shoes, pal. Pin the blame on yourself and suck it up.
It would then be the PALLIES' fault... get it. Meow.
Mrrrrowrl, you claim that the sluggishness is due to vetting of passengers by Israel. Well they clearly didn't do it to France, by your own words.
It's the fault of whichever side started the conflict, unless you think it should be more important to a sovereign country to protect a foreigner instead of her own people.
I didn't say anything remotely close to that.
The part of lifeguard training when trainee is advised of importance of keeping the drownee from drowning the both of them come to mind?
Godspeed to these Marines, eh?
Exactly.
By the way, your son isn't in the area as part of the rescue effort, is he?
I could care less about the French. They are more friendly with the Islamists. Maybe they knew what Hezbollah was up to before it started?
"Gee, I just heard the IAF dropping more bombs here in Beirut."
Grow up you're in a war zone now.
WTF do you expect. Hizzbolah crossed into Israel killed 6 soldiers, took 2 hostages and have launched over 1000 rockets directly at Israeli citizens. As soon as most of the civis are out of Lebanon, Israel will likely commence in earnest. Hopefully, with troops on the ground.
I suspect Israel is using restraint, to allow us time to get our citizens outta there.
God Bless Israel, may she finally wipe these fleabag terrorists off the map.
Most of the evacuations should pull together much better today.
Jan
However we must examine the realities with which State must deal.
The State Department must organize a processing infrastructure for evacuation of US citizens in Lebanon , as directed by Homeland Security.
Its not a matter of on the ground capability for transport. All those who return must be vetted before allowing re-entry. Certain male Muslims who fit established terrorist profiles can look forward to an extended vacation in Cyprus before being allowed to "re-enter" the USA.Setting up that capability is what is taking time.
As a security conscious American, I applaud the State Department for organizing the security effort necessary to the evacuation, and not giving in to the Screaming Meemie Liberals who think that the State Department operates an extended tourist retrieval service.
Travelers who are on an extended stay in ANY foreign nation MUST register with a US embassy or consulate in order to take advantage of consular services, and this is the ONLY way to be on an evacuation short list, AND those who did so are the folks being helicoptered out of Lebanon. Darwinism sucks, but it is an established fact of international travel.
Most travelers from the USA abroad enter countries through cities which have US Consulates or Embassies. It takes 20 minutes to go during regular office hours and fill out a registration form. If you have a cell phone with international capability, leave them that number, and believe me, if a security risk is imminent, or you need consular services, you will receive a phone call from them, or a message that you can get from your phone when you are back in range of your service. A SAT phone is best, in unstable areas, it can save your life.
Having said all this Reb, I will invoke the protectors on your behalf, and pray you safe journey and return.
It's not a scam and you should be ashamed of yourself for your tone.
This freeper wrote nearly a week ago that he did register with the State Department, as I recall, but the registration didn't go through. Something that happens quite frequently due to bureaucratic snafus.
I always hit the ground in a foreign country dying to run off and register my presence. LOL. Not.
Go back and re-read his posts, then see if you can say that with a straight face.
How about some compassion and support for a fellow freeper in a tight place?
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.