Australia updates travel warnings to war-hit Middle East, urges high degree of caution for Qatar

In the updated travel advisory warning, Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has elevated its advisory level for Qatar to “Exercise a high degree of caution.” The list already has a Do Not Travel warning for Israel, Iran, and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. The warning comes amid growing instability following fresh conflict between Israel and Iran.

The updated travel guidance was released after the intense military tensions escalated in the region. The Israeli military has launched airstrikes on Iran's nuclear facilities earlier this week. In response, Iran fired missiles into Israeli territory, including a strike that hit a hospital in Beersheba near the command center of the Israeli Defense Forces. The developments have caused alarm worldwide, with fears of a wider regional war.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has warned Australians that international travel routes may be affected, even if they are not flying directly into conflict zones. Airspace closures, cancellations, and sudden diversions are all possible.


DFAT noted that flights connecting through countries like Qatar, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia could face disruptions if the situation worsens.

The Smartraveller website now advises Australians to “exercise a high degree of caution” when travelling to or transiting through much of the Middle East.

This includes popular international stopovers such as Dubai, Doha, and Abu Dhabi. While these locations are not in active conflict zones, the risk of civil unrest or indirect impacts from military action has increased.

DFAT is particularly concerned about Australians in Iran and Israel, where conflict is active. Citizens currently in Iran are being advised to shelter in place or prepare to leave once it is safe to do so. The Australian embassy in Tehran has been temporarily closed, and diplomatic staff have been withdrawn.

Due to closed airspace and safety concerns, commercial flight options out of Iran and Israel remain limited. DFAT is working on alternative evacuation routes through neighbouring countries such as Azerbaijan.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong said the government is in touch with about 1,500 Australians in Iran and 1,200 in Israel, many of whom are seeking assistance. “We’re focused on helping Australians return safely,” she said, adding that government support will be limited in regions experiencing active conflict.