The UK Foreign Office and the US Embassy in Manama have issued a joint travel warning for Bahrain, urging tourists to remain vigilant amid heightened tensions with Iran. The advisory, published on July 21, 2026, cites information suggesting that Iran may seek to target unspecified locations in central Manama.
What the Warning Says
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) stated: "The US and Iran have announced a memorandum of understanding (MOU) in relation to the conflict in the Middle East. The situation remains unpredictable. Iran has carried out further attacks on Bahrain since the MOU was agreed, and could do so again at short notice. On 20 July, the US Embassy Manama issued an advisory that Iran may seek to target unspecified locations in central Manama. British nationals should remain vigilant and follow local authorities' instructions."
Background of the Conflict
The warning follows the February 28 attacks, when the United States and Israel launched a joint coordinated operation on Iran, striking nearly 900 targets over 12 hours, including nuclear, military, and infrastructure sites. The attack killed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and triggered retaliatory strikes by Iran across the Middle East. Before the April 8 ceasefire, Iran had targeted Gulf destinations with US or Israeli links, including organizations, businesses, facilities, and institutions. Civilian infrastructure such as ports, hotels, roads, bridges, energy facilities, oil production sites, water systems, and airports have all been targeted by Iranian artillery.
Impact on Travel
The FCDO warns that airspace may close at short notice, flights can change or stop suddenly, and borders can close. Australians have also been urged to reconsider travel to Jordan, Oman, and Saudi Arabia, with the Australian government raising the advisory level to 'reconsider your need to travel' due to the unpredictable security situation. Six nations—Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Palestine, Syria, and Yemen—remain at the highest 'do not travel' level for Australians.
