Penny Wong Issues Urgent Warning to Australians in Middle East
Foreign Minister Penny Wong has issued a stark warning to Australians currently residing in the Middle East, urging them to return home without delay. In a press briefing, Senator Wong emphasised the escalating risks in the region, stating, 'Our advice is that you should, if you can secure a seat, you should leave. Please don't wait until it is too late.'
Flight Cancellations and Evacuation Efforts
Senator Wong highlighted the severe disruption to air travel, noting that more than 27,000 flights to and from the Middle East to international destinations have been cancelled. This has resulted in an estimated 4.4 million airline seats being removed from schedules in the last week alone. Commercial flights are operating on a limited schedule, and there are concerns they may cease entirely.
Since the US-Israeli strikes on Iran began on February 28, 2,697 Australians have arrived from the United Arab Emirates on 18 direct flights. The government is actively working to facilitate further evacuations, with the first flight from Qatar to Australia having landed safely. Four additional flights are scheduled to depart from Dubai to Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth on Tuesday afternoon, contingent on airspace remaining open.
Support for Stranded Travellers
To assist Australians affected by the crisis, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has organised two buses for travellers stranded in Kuwait, where the airport has closed. A similar plan is in place for Australians in Bahrain. Senator Wong confirmed, 'We have been working around the clock to support Australians who have been impacted by these cancellations.'
Enhanced Security Measures
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced plans to deploy a high-tech spy plane and mid-range missiles to the Middle East to help protect approximately 115,000 Australians still in the region. Mr Albanese explained, 'Helping Australians meant also helping the UAE and other Gulf nations to defend themselves against what are unprovoked attacks.'
Travel Advisories and Registration
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has opened its Crisis Portal for registration in several countries, including Bahrain, Iran, Israel, Kuwait, Lebanon, Qatar, and the UAE. Senator Wong strongly advised Australians to avoid travel to these locations, as well as Palestine and Yemen. Travel to Jordan, Oman, and Saudi Arabia should be reconsidered due to the volatile situation.
Australians in the region are encouraged to monitor official updates and register with the Crisis Portal to receive assistance and information as the situation evolves.
