Here’s part of the warning on the government web site warning Canadians about traveling to Lebanon. This is quite apart from the new travel warning posted July 12 and updated daily.
I imagine that folks traveling to Lebanon are more than passively familiar with all the risks of course, and that they felt traveling there was a measured proportionate risk.
[…] There is an increased threat of terrorism in Lebanon due to heightened tensions and an ongoing political crisis. A series of targeted bombings and grenade attacks have taken place in different areas of Beirut since February 2004, injuring dozens and resulting in several deaths. The largest of these bombings took place on February 14, 2005, killing former Prime Minister Rafic Hariri and several others. Massive public protests in Beirut, Saidon, and other cities, both for and against the Syrian military presence in Lebanon, were followed by Syria’s removal of its forces from Lebanon in April 2005.
On February 5, 2006, a large and violent demonstration took place in Achrafieh, a district of Beirut. Canadians should avoid large gatherings and demonstrations, pay close attention to their personal security, and monitor the media for updates.
Heightened tensions throughout the region, together with increased threats globally from terrorism, put Canadians at greater risk. Canadians should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, including those against civilian targets, such as pedestrian promenades, shopping malls, open markets, restaurants, discotheques, cinemas, and other places frequented by foreigners. Canadians should maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times, as the security situation could deteriorate rapidly without notice. Exercise appropriate caution in large gatherings and crowded places. Canadians should monitor local developments and register and remain in regular contact with the Embassy of Canada in Beirut or Foreign Affairs Canada (call collect 613-996-8885).
The violence in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza has raised the possibility of demonstrations in support of Palestinians throughout the Middle East and elsewhere in the world. While Lebanese authorities have acted to prevent demonstrations from becoming violent, the potential for further protests remains high. Security conditions remain unpredictable. Canadian travellers should follow events closely, remain alert to the changing situation, exercise appropriate caution, avoid demonstrations, and take appropriate measures to maintain their security. These measures include being aware of one’s surroundings and keeping a low profile. Canadians should listen to and observe all warnings issued by Lebanese authorities and take appropriate precautions. Lebanon is subject to Israeli overflights breaking the sound barrier, causing sonic booms that can be confused with the sound of detonation.
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The Hezbollah maintains a presence in the south and several other areas, including the Bekaa Valley. Forces other than the Lebanese military exert a large amount of control in certain areas, especially in the Bekaa Valley and in southern Lebanon.
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3. SAFETY AND SECURITY
There is a highly visible security presence throughout the country. Canadians should carry full personal documentation and obey the instructions of security personnel. Canadians of Lebanese descent who carry Lebanese papers will be treated as Lebanese nationals by security officials. Canadian officials may be limited in their ability to provide consular services in cases where a dual national runs into difficulty.
Landmines and unexploded ordnance pose a significant threat, particularly in the south. Travellers should be aware of posted landmine warnings, stay on paved roads, and avoid walking or driving cross-country.
[…]Homosexual activity is illegal.
Exercise caution when taking photographs of non-tourist sites and areas around Hezbollah quarters. It is prohibited to photograph or videotape government buildings, military personnel, equipment, or installations.
PTBC was founded by Mr. Johannesen in 2000.
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