Yerevan Youth Orchestra evacuated from Lebanon amid regional escalation

The Yerevan Municipality’s Yerevan Youth Orchestra has returned safely to Armenia after being evacuated from Lebanon due to escalating regional tensions, the Armenian Embassy in Beirut reported.

It said a decision was taken to arrange the orchestra’s early departure following consultations with the Lebanese authorities. The ensemble, comprising 87 members including accompanying staff, was flown back to Yerevan on a specially organized flight.

The additional service was operated by Lebanon’s national carrier, Middle East Airlines, after negotiations involving the Armenian Embassy and Lebanon’s Minister of Tourism Laura Lahoud. The embassy said it maintained close coordination with Yerevan Municipality throughout the process.

Armenian diplomats, led by Ambassador Sarmen Baghdasaryan, escorted the group through areas affected by bombardment to ensure their safe transfer to the airport. The aircraft landed in Yerevan shortly before the announcement was made.

The embassy also activated a hotline to assist other Armenian citizens wishing to leave Lebanon, enabling them to register for seats on the flight.

Yerevan Mayor Tigran Avinyan expressed gratitude to the Armenian ambassador and Middle East Airlines for facilitating the safe return of the musicians.

The orchestra visited Beirut to participate in the Al Bustan International Festival.