The Swedish embassy in Lebanon will close temporarily due to the deteriorating security situation.
– This is a measure of concern for the safety of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ staff before the situation risks worsening further, says Tobias Billström (M), to TV4 Nyheterna.
With regard to the deteriorating security situation in the region and the security of the Foreign Ministry’s staff, Sweden’s envoy at the embassy in Beirut will temporarily leave Lebanon.
– The Foreign Ministry has instructed its staff to leave Beirut and travel to Cyprus. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is planning for a temporary relocation of the embassy, says Foreign Minister Tobias Billström (M), to TV4 Nyheterna.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs underlines that it is not the embassy in an informal sense, but has temporarily chosen to relocate it and let the staff leave Lebanon.
“May be extended”
The move to Cyprus is expected to last until the end of the month, with the possibility of an extension.
– This applies initially during the month of August but may be extended depending on the security situation, says Tobias Billström (M), to TV4 Nyheterna.
There are six people who work at the embassy in Beirut and are affected by the closure.
– I have spoken with our ambassador Ann Dismorr in Beirut before and it is the case that their condition is good. They have good courage and they feel good, says Tobias Billström (M) and continues:
– It is important to remember that employees at embassies are no more vulnerable than other people in Lebanon. But based on the security situation, it is now the case that the seconded personnel will leave the country.
Deteriorating situation in the region
The decision comes after an escalation in the region in recent days.
– Our assessment is that it is serious and it has worsened in recent days. Therefore, it is important to take these measures and steps.
Furthermore, Tobias Billström and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs again advise against travel to the country, and urge those who are in the country to leave while they can.
– I again urge Swedes in Lebanon to leave the country using the means of transport that are available while it is still possible. With the delegates leaving Lebanon, the embassy will no longer be able to provide Swedish consular support on site in Beirut. And Swedes who have chosen to stay in Lebanon should take measures to keep themselves as safe as possible in the event of an escalated conflict, says Tobias Billström.