A Brazilian Air Force (FAB) flight took off from Lisbon at 6:55 AM local time, bound for Lebanon, to repatriate Brazilian citizens amid escalating conflict in the region.
The operation, named “RaÃzes do Cedro” (Roots of the Cedar), aims to bring back approximately 220 Brazilians and their families, who have expressed a desire to return home. The flight was initially scheduled for October 4 but was postponed due to security concerns following recent bombings in Lebanon.
The decision to initiate this repatriation mission came after discussions between Brazilian President Lula and Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira during a recent trip to Mexico. The Brazilian embassy in Beirut has been actively consulting with the local community to assess the number of citizens wishing to return. As of now, nearly 3,000 individuals have shown interest in repatriation, primarily from the Bekaa Valley and Beirut.
The flight was delayed due to ongoing Israeli airstrikes targeting Hezbollah positions in Lebanon, which have also resulted in civilian casualties. Two Brazilian citizens have reportedly died since the escalation of violence began on September 20. The Brazilian government is closely monitoring the situation and has been in contact with Lebanese officials to ensure the safety of its citizens.
