Britain sends troops to Cyprus to help its citizens to leave Lebanon, reports "Reuters", quoted by News.bg.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer warned that the escalation in fighting between Israel and "Hezbollah" pushes the region to the brink.
Last night the government announced that 700 troops would be deployed to Cyprus, boosting Britain's presence in the area, which already has two Royal Navy ships, aircraft and transport helicopters.
"The events of the last hours and days have shown how volatile this situation is, so our message is clear – British citizens must leave immediately," Defense Secretary John Healey insisted.
"Our Government has ensured that all preparations are in place to support British citizens should the situation deteriorate."
Fierce fighting this week between Israel and the Iranian-backed Lebanese group "Hezbollah" have heightened fears that the nearly year-old conflict will escalate and destabilize the Middle East, where a war is already raging between "Hamas" and Israel in Gaza.
Starmer said he was very concerned that the region was spiraling out of control.
"All parties must step back from the brink," he insisted. "Obviously I am going to New York for the UN General Assembly to talk to colleagues and allies, but my message will be for a ceasefire. Step back from the edge. De-escalate the situation."
Israel's offensive since Monday morning has killed 569 people, including 50 children, and injured 1,835 others in Lebanon, Health Minister Firas Abiad said.
Thousands of displaced people who fled southern Lebanon sought refuge in schools and other buildings.
Israel said it was shifting its focus from Gaza to the northern border, where "Hezbollah" fires rockets at Israel in support of "Hamas", which is also supported by Iran.