Free Republic

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.

WASHINGTON (AP) -- The State Department on Monday urged Americans to leave Oman and the United Arab Emirates "due to heightened tensions and increased security concerns resulting from the current situation in the region." The department said families of U.S. officials and nonessential embassy workers also were advised to leave and that the U.S. embassies would have enough employees to provide consular services. Oman and the United Arab Emirates border Saudi Arabia and the Persian Gulf. The U.S. Air Force has planes stationed in both countries prepared to attack Iraq if President Bush authorizes military action. The State Department asks...