American air carriers are prohibited from use of Beirut International Airport due to continuing concern about passenger and aircraft security arrangements. In view of these concerns, official U.S. Government travelers currently use the airport on a limited basis. The expiration of the passport restriction for travel to Lebanon by U.S. citizens in July 1997 and the removal of the restriction on sale of airline tickets to Lebanon in June 1998 should not be construed as a determination by the Department of State that travel to Lebanon is without risk. The Department of State keeps the security situation in Lebanon under review and will address additional risks and take any other appropriate steps as necessary. In particular, U.S. citizens who travel to Lebanon should avoid the southern suburbs of Beirut, portions of the Biqa' valley, and southern Lebanon, including Sidon.
Palestinian camps are outside the control of the Lebanese government.
Areas inside and along the borders of the Israeli-occupied zone are unsettled and subject to frequent armed conflict. All of these areas should be avoided and visitors to Lebanon should monitor the news for reports of hostilities or incidents that might affect their personal safety. U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Lebanon are encouraged to register at the U.S. Embassy in Beirut. For security reasons, personal access to the consular section is not possible unless prior arrangements have been made. Therefore, contact with the U.S. Embassy on the specific requirements for registration should take place by phone, fax, or mail.