UK withdraws some diplomats from Lebanon over fears of wider conflict

The British Foreign Office said on Monday it was pulling out some of its embassy staff from Lebanon over fears that Israel's war against Hamas in the Gaza Strip could widen into the region.

"Events in Lebanon are fast moving. The situation has potential to deteriorate quickly and with no warning," the Foreign Office said in updated travel advice for Lebanon.

"Due to the security situation, some staff at the British embassy and all family members of staff have been temporarily withdrawn. The embassy continues with essential work including services to British nationals," it added.

"FCDO advises against all travel to Lebanon due to risks associated with the conflict between Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. There are ongoing mortar and artillery exchanges and airstrikes in South Lebanon, on the boundary with Israel. Tensions are high and events could escalate with little warning, which could affect or limit exit routes out of Lebanon," the Office warned.