Turkey Evacuates Citizens from Lebanon Amid Israeli Attacks
In a coordinated effort by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of National Defense, the evacuation of civilians, most of whom are Turkish citizens, from Lebanon under attack by Israel has commenced. The amphibious ships of the Naval Forces Command, TCG Bayraktar and TCG Sancaktar, carrying humanitarian aid, have docked at the port of Beirut to embark on Turkish citizens. Once the unloading of aid is completed on TCG Sancaktar, the two ships will depart for Turkey.
Efforts to Evacuate Turkish Citizens from Lebanon
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of National Defense are working hand in hand to carry out the evacuation of Turkish citizens stranded in Lebanon due to the Israeli attacks. The Naval Forces Command’s amphibious ships, TCG Bayraktar and TCG Sancaktar, have successfully unloaded their cargo at the port of Beirut.
Upon completion of preparations for evacuation on TCG Bayraktar, Turkish citizens, including elderly, disabled, infants, and children, are being welcomed aboard after luggage checks. The Turkish Ambassador to Beirut, Ali Barış Ulusoy, and the Commander of the Lebanon Evacuation Task Group, Rear Admiral Nihat Baran, are present to greet those boarding the ship.
Preparations are underway to load civilians onto TCG Sancaktar after the aid unloading process is finalized. The two ships will set sail for Turkey once all necessary procedures are completed.
Military Escort for Evacuation Ships
In a first-of-its-kind military evacuation from Lebanon by sea, those onboard the ships will be accompanied by two frigates and two patrol vessels on their journey back to Turkey.
Health screenings for civilians will be conducted by doctors on board Turkey’s indigenous amphibious ships. Additionally, citizens of other countries who have requested assistance from Turkish authorities will also be evacuated on these ships.
Historical Context of Evacuations from Lebanon
Turkey has a history of conducting evacuations from Lebanon during times of conflict. In 2006, during the 34-day Israel-Lebanon War, Turkish citizens were successfully evacuated. Under the coordination of the General Staff and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Naval Forces Command’s ships TCG İskenderun, TCG Gelibolu, and TCG Bartın arrived at Beirut Port on July 23, 2006.
After a 12-hour process, TCG İskenderun safely transported nearly 1100 citizens back to Turkey. This successful evacuation operation serves as a testament to Turkey’s commitment to the safety and well-being of its citizens in times of crisis.
In Conclusion
The ongoing evacuation of Turkish citizens from Lebanon amidst the conflict with Israel showcases Turkey’s dedication to the safety and security of its people. Through coordinated efforts between various government agencies and the deployment of military assets, Turkey is ensuring the timely and orderly repatriation of its citizens. As the evacuation process continues, Turkey remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding the well-being of its citizens both at home and abroad.
