The U.S. Embassy in Lebanon has issued a strong advisory urging American citizens residing in the country to leave as soon as possible, saying that they are "strongly encouraged" to depart now. 

In a statement, the embassy encouraged U.S. citizens to "explore their options" as Beirut airport remains operational and that there are still available flights on various commercial carriers.

"Since September 27, the U.S. government also has added thousands of seats in extra capacity to accommodate U.S. citizens and their family members. Much of this capacity has gone unused," read the statement. "Please understand that these additional flights will not continue indefinitely."