As the conflict in Lebanon intensifies, Senegal has taken significant steps to repatriate its citizens, with 117 nationals flown back to Dakar on a government-organized flight. This move comes in the wake of tragic events, including the death of 14-year-old Mariam Hachem's brother, who was killed in a bombing in Lebanon. Hussein Hachem, Mariam's father, expressed his grief, stating, 'Everything is lost.' [f7bbdd70] Senegal's Foreign Minister Yassine Fall condemned the Israeli bombardment in Lebanon, labeling it as genocide. Approximately 1,000 Senegalese nationals were reported to be in Lebanon, with some having left prior to the repatriation efforts. [f7bbdd70]
The ongoing violence has roots in the broader conflict that escalated after Hamas's attack on October 7, 2023, which resulted in the deaths of 1,200 Israelis. Protests have erupted in Dakar against Israel's actions in Gaza and Lebanon, reflecting Senegal's historical ties to both Lebanon and Palestine, which date back to 1975. [f7bbdd70]
In addition to Senegal's actions, the US embassy in Lebanon has advised its citizens to leave the country due to fears of an all-out war, echoing similar warnings from the UK and Canada. The Canadian government has decided to pull the children and guardians of its diplomats out of Israel amid fears of a broader conflict, as tensions with Iran and Hezbollah escalate. Global Affairs Canada has approved the temporary relocation of these families to a safe third country. [4fc30587]
The situation remains volatile, with Hezbollah firing rockets at Israel and the Israeli military responding with airstrikes. The international community is actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation of the conflict, while Western airlines have suspended flights to Lebanon. [baf37097]