More than 3000 Australians have returned home on 21 direct commercial flights from the Middle East, and more will follow in coming days.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong said two flights from Dubai were scheduled to arrive today and a further two were due to depart this afternoon. A flight from Doha was also scheduled to depart this evening.
“Our first priority is keeping Australians safe and we are working around the clock to help Australians who need it,” Senator Wong said.
“Airports and airlines have advised that the overwhelming majority of Australian passengers stranded while transiting through the Middle East have now departed.
“While airspace restrictions and intermittent closures around major transit hubs continue to cause delays and cancellations, commercial flights remain the fastest option for Australians to leave the Middle East.”
Senator Wong said Australians who lived and worked in the Middle East were facing difficult choices.
Major airlines had extended their refund and free rebooking windows to assist passengers whose flights have been impacted.
Limited outbound commercial flights had begun from Ben Gurion International airport in Israel and commercial flights continued to operate from Rafic Hariri International Airport in Lebanon.
“The Government advises Australians if they can secure a commercial flight or other transport to leave Lebanon, and if it is safe to travel to the departure point, they should consider doing so,” Senator Wong said.
“With airports closed in Kuwait and Bahrain, Australian officials are working with our partners on bus transportation to Riyadh enabling passengers to continue their journey on commercial flights.
“Our ability to provide consular assistance in Iran is extremely limited.”
Australians in Iran were urged to prioritise their safety, monitor events and shelter in place during strikes.
“We urge them to consider all available options to depart if it’s safe to do so,” Senator Wong said.
“The 24/7 DFAT Crisis Centre remains activated, and the crisis registration portal is open for Australians in Bahrain, Iran, Israel, Kuwait, Qatar, Lebanon, and the United Arab Emirates.
“We continue to advise Do Not Travel to most destinations in the Middle East.”
Australians requiring urgent consular assistance can contact the 24/7 Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135 (within Australia) or +61 2 6261 3305 (from overseas).
