For Australian’s living in in the Middle East, or planning to travel there, the Australian Government has warned there is a risk of ongoing reprisal attacks and escalation across the Middle East region, and local security situations could quickly deteriorate.
The Australian Government’s travel advisory service, Smartraveller now has a “Do not travel” warning for Australians travelling to Bahrain, Israel, Kuwait, Lebanon, Qatar or the United Arab Emirates.
They continue to advise “Do not travel” to Iran, Iraq, Palestine, Syria or Yemen.
Australians should reconsider the need to travel to Jordan, Oman and Saudi Arabia.
The advice is under constant review. It includes the latest information on travel, security and health risks.
Opening hours at Australian Embassies and Consulates across the region may be impacted by the security situation, or officials may be working from other locations.
The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) recommends Australians already in conflict-affected areas should:
- prioritise your safety, monitor events and follow local advice including shelter in place instructions
- register with DFAT where eligible
- stay in contact with your travel agent or airline about flight availability
- make plans to leave if possible and safe to do so
- monitor Smartraveller for the latest travel advice.
Australians needing emergency consular assistance should contact the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre:
+61 2 6261 3305 (overseas)
1300 555 135 (in Australia).
You can contact Home Affairs via their website or call Home Affairs Global Support on +61 2 6196 0196 Monday – Friday, 9 am – 5 pm in your local time.
