The UK government has released updated travel advisories for 18 countries due to recent Israeli airstrikes on Iran and escalating tensions in the Middle East. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) is urging travelers to reconsider visiting popular destinations in the region to prioritize their safety.
As of October 26, the advisories specifically caution against travel to Cyprus, Turkey, Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait, the Occupied Palestinian Territories, Israel, Libya, Iran, Lebanon, and Syria. The FCDO highlighted the ongoing hostilities between Israel and Lebanon as a significant risk factor, noting the potential for rapid escalation and broader regional implications.
The advisories reference the October 1 incident, where Iran launched around 200 ballistic missiles at Israel, followed by Israel’s military response on October 26. The FCDO emphasizes the swiftly changing situation in the Middle East and advises travelers to stay informed through official travel updates and media outlets.
Travelers are warned that traveling against FCDO advice may result in invalidated travel insurance. The FCDO recommends following their updates on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, as well as signing up for email notifications for the latest information. They also encourage travelers to consult specific FCDO guidance related to crises abroad.
Additionally, a separate advisory for Turkey has been issued following a terrorist attack on October 23 at the Turkish Aerospace Industries facility in Kahramankazan. This tragic incident resulted in five fatalities and 22 injuries, including the deaths of two assailants. The advisory instructs travelers in the area to adhere to local authorities’ guidance and stay updated via local media.
The travel warning for Turkey further notes enhanced security measures at Turkish airports, which may lead to longer wait times at security checkpoints. Travelers are advised to plan accordingly to accommodate these potential delays.
