Anthony Albanese, Penny Wong urge Australians to leave Middle East as war fears escalate
The Prime Minister and Foreign Minister have urged Australians in the Middle East to leave immediately as the conflict with Iran threatens to escalate.
Anthony Albanese and his Foreign Minister have urged all Australians in the Middle East to leave now while they still can, anticipating that the situation will deteriorate further shortly.
More than 2600 stranded Australians have returned home since the US and Israeli war with Iran began on February 28.
That includes the vast majority of Australians who were transiting through the region, Foreign Minister Penny Wong confirmed on Tuesday.
Sign up to The Nightly's newsletters.
Get the first look at the digital newspaper, curated daily stories and breaking headlines delivered to your inbox.
By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.More than 27,000 flights to and from the Middle East, which includes major transit hubs in Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi, have been cancelled since the war began.
However, Senator Wong said Qatar airspace was reopening and commercial flights would operate from Doha in a limited schedule in coming days.
Limited outbound flights have also resumed from Ben Gurion International Airport in Israel, and other flights continue from Lebanon and the UAE.
“There are many more Australians still in the Middle East, and we do understand these are difficult decisions for Australians and their families, but can I echo what the Prime Minister has now said: We encourage those who do wish to leave, do so now. Do so while commercial flights are still available, however limited,” Senator Wong said.
“I emphasise that DFAT has directed the departure of all dependents and officials posted to the United Arab Emirates.
“This is because the security situation is deteriorating, and it is likely to get worse before it gets better.”
Mr Albanese said there were still significant challenges in getting people out of the region and that commercial flights remained the best opportunity.
Multiple flights that have arrived in Australia in recent days from the war zone have been half-full.
“If you’re trying to come back to Australia and you’re offered a seat, please take it. Take the opportunity,” Mr Albanese said.
A further five flights are scheduled to leave Dubai for Australia later today, subject to safety clearances.
Australians are advised “do not travel” to Bahrain, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Kuwait, Lebanon, Palestine, Qatar, Syria, the UAE and Yemen.
They should reconsider the need to travel to Jordan, Oman and Saudi Arabia and exercise a high degree of caution in Azerbaijan.
People requiring consular help for themselves or their family can contact the 24-hour crisis line on 1300 555 135 from within Australia or +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas.
