Wong: Fears Lebanon becoming ‘next Gaza’

Foreign Minister Penny Wong fears Lebanon could become the next Gaza following Israel’s deadly onslaught against the militant Hezbollah, issuing her strongest warning for Australians to immediately leave the conflict zone.

Wednesday marked the third day of Israeli air strikes in southern Lebanon with the death toll soaring to at least 569, with more than 1800 injured. The Health Ministry said at least 50 children, 94 women and nine paramedics were among the fatalities.

Senator Wong said “this destructive cycle must stop,” adding that “all parties must show restraint and de-escalate”.

“Civilians are being killed by Israeli strikes and it is women and children who are paying the highest price,” she said.

“What has happened in recent days only makes an immediate ceasefire in Gaza even more urgent.

“Lebanon cannot become the next Gaza, and the violence in Gaza must end. Hostages must be released and aid must flow.”

She also reiterated calls for Australians to leave the area as soon as possible, with travellers warned to not travel to the Middle Eastern country since October 19.

“I know there are so many people in Australia who have relatives, friends and family in Lebanon, and this is obviously a very stressful situation for them,” she said.

“Australians in Lebanon must leave now.”

Senator Wong urged travellers to “not wait for a preferred route” and take the “first opportunity” to leave.

“There are flight cancellations and disruptions, and there is a risk Beirut airport may close for an extended period,” she said.

While Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport remains open, several international carriers including Emirates, Qatar Airways and Air France have suspended flights to and from the capital.

Israeli Defence Force spokesman Jonathan Conricus also flagged the airport could be targeted in an attack, saying while “it was not something Israel will do lightly,” the site was a “very important asset for Hezbollah”.