Ottoman royal family members set to be evacuated from Lebanon
The Israeli army continues its airstrikes on the Dahiyeh region, south of the Lebanese capital Beirut. Thick smoke rose from the area as a result of the attack, Lebanon, September 28, 2024. (AA Photo)
Members of the Ottoman royal family currently residing in Lebanon are facing increasing difficulties as the conflict in the region intensifies.
The grandson of Sultan Abdulhamid, Orhan Osmanoglu, announced that the situation has become more critical for the 25 members of the family following Israel’s announcement of a ground operation, prompting efforts to evacuate them to Türkiye.
Members of Ottoman family face growing risks in Lebanon
The Ottoman family members living in Lebanon include elderly and ill relatives, which has raised concerns about their safety amid the escalating conflict. The process of bringing them back to Türkiye has begun, with hopes that they will soon be safely returned to their homeland.
The family’s connection to Lebanon goes back decades, as many were exiled from Türkiye in 1924 after the abolition of the caliphate, and Lebanon became a key refuge.
Why Lebanon became refuge for Ottoman royal family
Lebanon became a key refuge for many members of the Ottoman royal family after they were exiled from Türkiye in 1924, following the abolition of the caliphate.
Initially, many exiled family members struggled to find permanent homes, as much of the Muslim world was under colonial control, and countries like the United Kingdom, which ruled territories such as Palestine and Egypt, did not welcome them.
France, however, allowed the Ottoman royals to settle in its territories, including Syria and Lebanon. Lebanon, in particular, offered a unique combination of factors that made it appealing to the exiled family.
Beirut’s cosmopolitan nature and the respect shown by the local Sunni population helped create a supportive environment for the Ottoman royal family members. The city’s Mediterranean climate and its proximity to Türkiye also played a role, providing a sense of familiarity and comfort to the exiled family.
Over time, Beirut became a hub for many Ottoman royal family members. Despite their exile, they were able to maintain some elements of their previous lifestyle, and Beirut served as a place where they could stay connected to their roots. The family often gathered for meals and social events, which helped preserve a sense of unity during their time in exile.
Ongoing efforts to evacuate Ottoman royal family amid rising tensions
Efforts are now underway to evacuate the Ottoman family members back to Türkiye. Although details remain limited, the operation to bring all 25 members to safety is being closely followed.
Given the escalating conflict in Lebanon, the urgency to relocate them has grown, with concerns about their welfare driving the process forward.
