In the wake of escalating tensions between Israel and Lebanon, the Australian Government has issued a comprehensive travel alert for the entire Middle East region. The alert, issued on Sunday, October 1st, 2024, warns Australian citizens of increasing risks and potential disruptions to travel plans due to the ongoing conflict.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has updated travel advisories on its Smartraveller website for several countries in the region, including the United Arab Emirates (Dubai and Abu Dhabi), Turkey, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Bahrain, Yemen, Syria, Iran, and Iraq. A similar advisory was updated for Saudi Arabia on September 30th. Even countries with lower risk assessments, such as Qatar and Oman, have received warnings urging travelers to “exercise normal safety precautions.”
DFAT acknowledges that the “ongoing conflict in Lebanon and the Occupied Palestinian Territories could lead to increased tensions in other locations in the Middle East.” The update also warns of a heightened risk of attacks against Israeli interests throughout the region, alongside the possibility of demonstrations and rapid changes in local security situations. Travelers may face significant disruptions, including airspace closures, flight cancellations, and diversions, as the conflict could impact air traffic across the entire region.
Specifically, DFAT has updated its travel advice for Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, urging Australians to reconsider their need to travel to these areas due to the volatile security situation. For those already in Israel, DFAT recommends reconsidering their need to remain, advising them to leave if it is safe to do so. The warning extends to Gaza, border areas with Gaza and Lebanon, and the West Bank (excluding East Jerusalem), where the risk of missile and rocket attacks remains high.
As the situation worsens, the Australian Government is working with its citizens in Lebanon to help them secure seats on commercial flights, given the possibility of Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport shutting down. Currently, Middle East Airlines is the only major airline still operating in Beirut.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong took to social media to address concerns, stating that Australians wishing to leave Lebanon should register on DFAT’s portal. She acknowledged the difficulty of the situation, including the challenges in securing flights amid cancellations. DFAT is in direct communication with registered Australians, offering assistance and urging them to depart at the first available opportunity. “There is a risk Beirut airport may close for an extended period,” Wong said. “We continue to urge Australians in Lebanon to take the first opportunity they can to depart. Please do not wait for a preferred route.”
The Australian Government’s travel alert underscores the evolving and unpredictable nature of the conflict in the Middle East. Australians are advised to remain vigilant, monitor the situation closely, and follow the guidance provided by DFAT.
