Canadian Family Stranded in Lebanon Urgently Awaits Flight Amid Ongoing Israeli Strikes
A Canadian family finds themselves trapped in Lebanon, anxiously awaiting flight options as a series of Israeli airstrikes continues to rattle the country. Jalal Tabaja, a father of four Canadian children, expressed his concern from a hotel he relocated his family to in a quieter area north of Beirut, where the sound of explosions reverberates throughout the city.
Global Affairs Canada is actively assisting Canadians, permanent residents, and their immediate family members in evacuating from Lebanon amid the escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. Currently, there are nearly 25,000 Canadians believed to be in Lebanon, with approximately 5,000 requesting assistance. Government officials have contacted over 2,300 individuals to offer seats on commercial flights arranged for their safe return.
As the situation intensifies, the United Nations International Organization for Migration reported that over 1,600 individuals have lost their lives, and approximately 6,000 have been injured in the ongoing violence in Lebanon.
Tragically, Tabaja lost both of his parents last week when their vehicle was struck by an Israeli bomb. He shared that his family has been informed they might be able to board a flight on Sunday but are still awaiting confirmation. While he expressed gratitude for the Canadian government’s efforts, he emphasized that more needs to be done to ensure the safety and rescue of those still trapped in the war-torn region.
As families like the Tabajas navigate this harrowing experience, the urgent call for international support and swift evacuation options grows stronger.
Source: The Canadian Press
