What it is about

The U.S. Embassy in Lebanon has issued a cautionary statement advising Americans to leave the country due to escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah. This comes in light of a recent deadly rocket attack orchestrated by Lebanon-based Hezbollah terrorists, which killed 12 children at a soccer field in Israel.

Why it matters

Israel is preparing a robust and targeted military response to the attack, raising concerns about a significant armed conflict in the area. This has prompted various international airlines, including Air France, Lufthansa, and Swiss International Air Lines, to suspend flights to and from Beirut.

State Department’s Actions

Assistant Secretary of State Rena Bitter emphasized the urgency for U.S. citizens to prepare a crisis plan and leave Lebanon promptly. Bitter underscored that Americans should be ready to “shelter in place for long periods” if commercial transport options become unavailable.

Israel’s Measures

Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have reportedly conducted a drone strike in southern Lebanon, killing two Hezbollah terrorists. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reviewed potential military responses in a cabinet meeting, authorizing a strategic retaliation.

U.S.-Israel Coordination

Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin discussed the situation with Israel’s Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, noting the use of an Iranian rocket in the Hezbollah attack. The IDF also released footage of shooting down a drone over Israeli waters.

What’s next

As Israel prepares to deliver a “swift, harsh, and painful” response, the international community watches closely. U.S. citizens in Lebanon are advised to stay alert and consider their safety as top priority, enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for updated travel alerts.

This story was first published on foxnews.com.