Israel, Iran, Middle East travel warning: Smartraveller tells Australians to ‘shelter’ as war erupts

Smartraveller has issued an urgent warning to Australians in the Middle East, telling them to shelter as military strikes hit Iran and Israel declares a state of emergency over possible retaliation.

“Following military strikes in Iran, Australians in Iran should shelter in place and take the advice of local authorities in affected areas. See our general advice on protecting your safety during an armed conflict,” Smartraveller said in a statement online.

“Airlines may cancel or reduce their operations to and from Iran at short notice and your options to leave may be limited. Check the latest flight status with your airline or travel provider. The Australian Government may not be able to assist with your departure.”

Iran has a “do not travel” level warning according to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade website.

Australians in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories have been warned about the “increased threat of military and terrorist attacks”.

“Following military strikes in Iran, there’s an increased threat of military and terrorist attacks against Israel. In an attack or other armed conflict, you should take shelter (and) follow the advice of local authorities,” a statement from Smartraveller said.

“Monitor local media and public safety information updates through the National Emergency Portal (accessible in Israel only).”

Smartraveller said the security situation in the Middle East could continue to deteriorate without notice.

“There may also be airspace closures, flight and other travel disruptions.”

The airspace over Iran has been closed

As the first Israeli strike on Tehran hit, the FlightRadar24 website tracked several commercial passenger planes turning around just outside Tel Aviv.

Over Iran, flights quickly scattered — some even becoming untrackable — before later reappearing on the map in another location.

The airspace over Iraq has also emptied.

In Tel Aviv, flight boards have filled with “cancelled” messages for both arrivals and departures.

The usually bustling city is now under a state of emergency, coming at a time when tens of thousands of travellers are headed to the city to celebrate Tel Aviv Pride as part of Pride month.

What Australians in Israel, Iran or the Middle East should do

Smartraveller is warning Australians to stay away of possible additional attacks and armed conflict.

If armed conflict breaks out, the travel safety group urges Australians to:

• Stay in safe places
• Limit movement
• Be alert, especially in large crowds
• Keep a low profile
• Keep hard copy lists of emergency contacts with you

They encourage Australians to stay in contact with friends or family where possible, follow instructions and to make plans to leave.

The Australian Government warns it will not make the decision to leave or stay for Aussies caught up in war.

“If you want to leave, go early. Don’t wait for help from the Government or evacuation flights. Conflict may escalate to a point where it’s no longer safe to leave,” Smartraveller says.

Australians should also contact their airline or travel agent.

“Airlines often cancel flights to locations affected by armed conflict, especially if it threatens the airport. Local authorities may shut the airport down or declare a no-fly zone. Opposing forces may take over the airport,” Smartraveller warns.

When flights become sparse, costs for tickets can become astronomical.

To contact the Australian Government in an emergency:

• Call the nearest Australian embassy, high commission or consulate
• Call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305’