2 Canadians killed in Lebanon as Israel-Hezbollah conflict escalates

Two Canadians have been killed in Lebanon as hostilities escalate between Israel and the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah.

Global Affairs Canada confirmed the fatalities, stating to Global News on Wednesday that it was “aware of the deaths of two Canadian citizens” and that “officials stand ready to provide consular assistance.”

The agency did not provide additional details, citing privacy concerns.

Additionally, the department mentioned it had received one request for consular support concerning injuries sustained during recent attacks.

Tensions have heightened following a series of bombings across Lebanon last week, where explosives concealed in pagers and walkie-talkies killed dozens and injured thousands, including many Hezbollah members. The Lebanese government and Hezbollah have attributed the remote attacks to Israel, although Israel has not confirmed or denied involvement.

On Wednesday, the Israeli military announced it is activating reserve troops in response to the escalating situation with Hezbollah.

The announcement followed Hezbollah's firing of a missile toward Tel Aviv for the first time.

"Canadians should leave now"

With rising tensions, Canadians in Lebanon are being urged to exit the country immediately, with Global Affairs Canada indicating that government-assisted evacuations are an “option of last resort.”

“The Government of Canada is reiterating that Canadians should leave now, while the airport is still accessible and commercial airline options remain available,” GAC stated.

The department reported an uptick in inquiries at its Emergency Watch and Response centre over the weekend, primarily concerning departure options, travel documents, and visas.

“Canada is not currently offering assisted departures or evacuations for Canadians in Lebanon, and there is never a guarantee that the Canadian government will evacuate citizens in a crisis situation,” GAC emphasized. “Canadians should not rely on the Government of Canada for assisted departure or evacuation.”

Tensions between Israel and Hezbollah have steadily escalated over the past 11 months, with Hezbollah launching rockets, missiles, and drones into northern Israel in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza and its ally Hamas, another Iran-backed militant group. In response, Israel has conducted heavy airstrikes and targeted the killing of Hezbollah commanders while threatening broader military actions.

Before this week’s escalation, nearly a year of conflict had already displaced tens of thousands on both sides of the border.

Israel has vowed to take necessary actions to ensure the safety of its citizens in the north, while Hezbollah has stated it will continue its rocket attacks until a cease-fire is achieved in Gaza, a prospect that seems increasingly unlikely.

GAC mentioned that “contingency plans are in place in Lebanon to respond should the situation deteriorate further.”

Canadians in Lebanon seeking assistance are encouraged to contact the Embassy of Canada in Lebanon or GAC’s Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.