You want to get out of the war zone that Lebanon is fast becoming? Reach for your wallet.
In a message to American citizens trapped in Lebanon, the U.S. Embassy’s website reads: “The Department of State reminds American citizens that the U.S. government does not provide no-cost transportation.” For those unfortunate enough to be weathering the bombing and also have empty pockets, the government offers a “repatriation loan” – citizens will get a bill once they land safely in the States.
This is in stark contrast to Canada, which advises its citizens that “All costs related to the evacuation of Canadians citizens from Lebanon will be borne by the Government of Canada.”
People trapped there, of course, have little other recourse for evacuation, since the airport and major roads have been bombed.
When I called the State Department about the policy, I was promised a call back and told “You’re not the first one to ask.” So we expect an answer soon.
