Military conflict in the Middle East has caused widespread fuel supply shortages, flight cancellations and other travel disruptions worldwide.
Your travel plans may be affected even if your destination is not in the Middle East.
Widespread fuel shortages
Military conflict in the Middle East continues to disrupt global fuel supply worldwide. Many airlines have cancelled or limited flights. Many countries are introducing restrictions or measures to preserve fuel supplies. New measures may be introduced at short notice.
If you’re travelling anywhere overseas, your plans may be impacted. There may be:
- flight and local transport disruptions
- changes in availability of food, water and medicines
- venue closures
- impacts on essential services.
Check with your airline and travel providers well before your trip to see how you might be affected. Also check if your travel insurance policy covers flight delays and cancellations.
Read the travel advice for your destination and follow developments in local media.
Global safety and security
Military conflict in the Middle East could impact safety and security elsewhere. Protests and civil unrest may happen globally. The risk of terrorist attacks can increase. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places or mass gatherings. Avoid locations that could be at higher risk of terrorist attacks, particularly around:
- places of worship
- shopping malls and markets
- public transport and transportation hubs
- bars, nightclubs, cafes and restaurants
- hotels and residential compounds
- diplomatic missions
- government facilities, police stations and locations of security forces
- universities
- festivals and concerts
- stadiums and sporting venues.
There remains concern about increased risk of attacks on Israeli and US interests globally and on Jewish communities.
Read our advice about:
Transiting the Middle East
‘Do not travel’ advice also applies to transit and layovers in affected locations. Even if you don’t plan to leave the airport, do not transit through these countries.
Airspace may close at short notice. Flights can change or stop suddenly. Borders can close.
If you have no other option:
- stay as short a time as possible
- minimise time spent in high-risk locations
- avoid unnecessary activities.
What you should do
Read the travel advice for your destination and all transit points, and subscribe for free updates.
If your trip includes a transit or stop in a ‘Do not travel’ country, contact your travel agent or airline about alternative routes, re-booking or refunds. Do not cancel your flights until you get professional advice.
Check your travel insurance policy for coverage of flight delays, cancellations and changes to travel advice levels.
While you're travelling
- Keep in touch with your travel agent, airline and travel insurance policy provider in the event of flight delays, cancellations, or increased travel advice levels.
- Monitor local and international news and be aware of current affairs where you're going.
- Prioritise your safety, monitor developments closely and follow local authorities’ advice
- Report anything suspicious to the police.