Türkiye has launched a humanitarian mission to evacuate civilians, primarily Turkish citizens, from Lebanon amid extensive Israeli airstrikes in recent weeks. Two amphibious warfare ships, TCG Bayraktar and TCG Sancaktar, have arrived in Beirut Port with humanitarian aid. The evacuation process began after unloading the supplies, with civilians boarding the TCG Bayraktar. The evacuees, including the elderly, women, infants, and children, are being assisted by Türkiye’s Ambassador to Beirut and the commander of the evacuation mission group.
The ships, accompanied by frigates and patrol boats, will set sail for Türkiye after all procedures are complete. Apart from Turkish citizens, citizens of other countries who have sought assistance from Türkiye will also be evacuated. This humanitarian effort echoes a similar operation conducted during the Israel-Lebanon war in 2006, showcasing Türkiye’s commitment to assisting its citizens in times of crisis.