New Delhi, Aug. 1: Amid rising regional tensions, the Indian Embassy in Lebanon has advised Indians to "leave the country" and against travelling to the country.

The Embassy has issued a new advisory urging Indian nationals to leave the country due to escalating tensions following the recent killings of top Hamas leaders. The Embassy's post on Thursday stated, "In view of the recent developments and potential threats in the region, Indian nationals are strongly advised against travelling to Lebanon till further notice," adding the new advise saying, "All Indian nationals are also strongly advised to leave Lebanon."

This latest alert follows an earlier advisory advising against non-essential travel to the region, which did not initially recommend leaving the country. This marks the third travel advisory issued by the Embassy in 48 hours.

The advisory continued, "Those who remain for any reason are advised to exercise extreme caution, restrict their movements and remain in contact with the Embassy of India in Beirut through their email id: cons.beirut@mea.gov.in or emergency phone number +96176860128."

According to reports, there are approximately 4,000 Indian nationals in Lebanon, with most of them employed as workers in companies, construction sector and agricultural farms..

This advisory follows increased hostilities, including a rocket attack on the Golan Heights by Hezbollah that killed 12 children. In retaliation, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) announced the death of top Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in an airstrike on southern suburb Beirut. Shukr, a key figure on Hezbollah's Jihad Council, was reportedly responsible for the group’s advanced weaponry and recent attacks on Israel, including the deadly strike in Majdal Shams.

The IDF described Shukr as a significant threat, overseeing Hezbollah’s strategic operations and advanced weaponry. In response, Hezbollah has condemned the Israeli strike, and both Hamas and the Houthis have expressed solidarity with Lebanon and Hezbollah, calling the attack a dangerous escalation.-Agencies