Turkey's Navy Evacuates Citizens From Beirut

The evacuations are a response to the intensifying violence following a surprise attack by Hamas on Israel, which has led to retaliatory actions from Israel and increased rocket fire from Hezbollah. As the conflict has escalated, resulting in significant casualties and displacement within Lebanon, Turkey’s government has prioritized the safety of its citizens abroad. The Turkish Navy deployed two ships, the TCG Sancaktar and TCG Bayraktar, which not only facilitated the evacuation but also brought 300 tons of humanitarian supplies to assist those affected by the crisis. Turkish officials have indicated that further evacuations may be organized, including potential charter flights, as the situation remains volatile and many Turkish nationals continue to seek refuge.

Context of the Evacuations

The evacuation operations are part of Turkey’s broader humanitarian and protective measures in response to the regional crisis. Approximately 13,000 to 14,000 Turkish citizens reside in Lebanon, with around 2,000 having applied for evacuation. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasized the country’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens and providing assistance to the region amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis.

Experiences of Evacuees

Many evacuees have shared harrowing accounts of their experiences in Lebanon. Eyup Sabri Kirgiz, a Turkish engineer, described the fear and destruction in his neighborhood, prompting his family to leave after enduring constant bombardment. Similarly, other evacuees expressed their gratitude for the evacuation efforts while also lamenting the necessity of leaving their homes and livelihoods behind. The journey back to Turkey is expected to take about 10 to 12 hours, with many evacuees expressing a desire to return to Lebanon once conditions improve.

Future Evacuations

Turkey’s Ministry of National Defense has indicated that it is prepared to conduct additional evacuations if necessary and is actively compiling a list of citizens wishing to leave Lebanon. The situation remains dynamic, and Turkey is also considering charter flights to facilitate the safe return of its citizens, reflecting the country’s ongoing commitment to ensuring their safety during this tumultuous period.