Sweden temporarily closes embassy in Lebanon for security reasons

Aug. 3 (EUROPA PRESS) –

Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billström announced on Saturday the temporary closure of the embassy in Lebanon due to the possibility of a large-scale escalation of hostilities between Israel and the Shiite militia Hezbollah following the Gaza war and the death this week of militia commander Fuad Sukr.

“This is a measure we have taken for the safety of our employees before the situation worsens,” Minister Billström told Swedish broadcaster TV4 Nyheterna, confirming that all staff will travel to Cyprus, the temporary location for the diplomatic headquarters.

Cyprus will remain in this position for the time being until the end of the month, but Sweden has not ruled out extending this period depending on how the situation develops. Six employees, starting with Ambassador Ann Dismorr, will be affected by this transfer.

“It is important to remember that embassy employees are not in a more vulnerable situation than the rest of the population, but as things stand, it is better for them to leave the country,” he said, before acknowledging that “the Swedish government’s assessment of the situation is quite serious and has worsened in recent days.”

Billström has also asked Swedish citizens in Lebanon to leave the country “using all available means as long as possible” because the Embassy will no longer provide consular services on site in Beirut.