A Brazilian Air Force (FAB) aircraft successfully evacuated the first 229 Brazilian nationals from Lebanon on Saturday, October 5, 2024. This operation comes in response to escalating military actions in the region, which have resulted in significant casualties, including two Brazilian teenagers. The repatriation effort is part of a broader initiative by the Brazilian government to assist its citizens caught in the conflict.
The recent escalation of violence in Lebanon has been marked by intense military operations between Israeli forces and the Hezbollah group. The situation has led to widespread destruction and a humanitarian crisis, prompting many Brazilians living in the region to seek assistance from their government. Reports indicate that over 3,000 of the approximately 21,000 Brazilians in Lebanon have requested repatriation.
The operation, dubbed “Raízes do Cedro” (Roots of the Cedar), began with the FAB’s KC-30 aircraft departing from Brazil on October 4. After a brief stop in Lisbon for refueling, the plane arrived in Beirut, where it faced significant security challenges. The aircraft was only able to remain on the ground for less than two hours due to ongoing airstrikes in the vicinity of the airport.
