score:5
Yes, they could argue that COVID-19 is a exceptional circumstance. Nevertheless, you are still entitled to a refund but not necessarily to compensation.
MEA's cancellation section says:
If your flight, for which you hold a valid reservation, is cancelled, you are entitled to re-routing, care, refund and compensation as laid out here above. You are not entitled to receive a compensation if the cancellation is attributed to extraordinary circumstances which could not have been avoided, even if all reasonable measures had been taken. Examples include bad weather conditions, political instability, strikes, security, risks, unexpected flight safety shortcomings.
I would say to give it a bit of time, since they probably have many refund requests. Then, you can demand for a refund and try to argue for compensation, but compensation is highly unlikely.
Upvote:2
MEA is only flying repatriation flights from Lebanon to Europe to pick up Lebanese nationals right now. You have to contact their office in Giffinor and ask them how you can come back. They are on 24/7. I can give you the number for their office in Switzerland, if you want. Also, try contacting the Lebanese embassy in Switzerland.