Since late September, over 18,000 Lebanese citizens have entered Iraq due to ongoing Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani has ordered a visa-free entry for these individuals. The Israeli military campaign targets Hezbollah amid an escalation of regional conflicts, leading to significant casualties in Lebanon.
According to Iraqi authorities, over 18,000 Lebanese citizens have entered Iraq since the onset of Israeli airstrikes on September 27, 2023. Alaa al-Din al-Qaisi, a spokesperson for Iraq’s Border Ports Authority, indicated that the influx occurs in response to directives from Iraq’s Prime Minister, Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, who sanctioned visa-free entry for Lebanese nationals. The Israeli military operation is part of a broader escalation in ongoing conflict involving Hezbollah amidst hostilities in Gaza.
The context surrounding this article involves a surge in violence in the region, primarily attributed to Israeli airstrikes on Lebanese territory targeting Hezbollah positions. Following the outbreak of conflict in Gaza, tensions escalated between Israel and various militant groups in the region. The humanitarian implications of these airstrikes have prompted a significant number of Lebanese citizens to seek refuge in neighboring Iraq, compelling Iraqi authorities to facilitate their entry during a period of heightened instability.
In summary, the situation reflects the consequences of the intensified military actions by Israel in Lebanon, resulting in a humanitarian crisis. The response by Iraqi authorities showcases an effort to provide refuge for Lebanese nationals amid increasing regional tensions. It remains crucial to monitor the evolving dynamics in the region as the conflict develops further.
Original Source: www.bernama.com