The Australian Government has issued an urgent travel warning for Australians planning to visit or transit through Qatar, raising the travel advisory to Level 2—“exercise a high degree of caution.” This update, issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade via the Smartraveller service, highlights growing instability in the Middle East and warns of potential flight disruptions, airspace closures, and sudden protests. Although travel to Qatar is not completely discouraged, the advisory emphasizes that risks there are currently higher than in major Australian cities. Travellers are urged to avoid demonstrations and stay updated on changing security conditions. The heightened alert reflects escalating regional tensions, especially the worsening conflict between Israel and Iran.

Amid this broader instability, Australia has closed its embassy in Tehran and evacuated all diplomats and dependents due to rapidly deteriorating conditions. Consular officials have been sent to Azerbaijan to help Australians attempting to leave Iran. Foreign Minister Penny Wong has advised Australians in Iran to leave if it is safe to do so, and efforts are underway to assist those who cannot depart. Meanwhile, over 1,200 Australians remain registered for help to exit Israel, where airspace has been closed amid escalating violence. Hundreds have been reported dead in Iran following Israeli airstrikes, with dozens more killed in Iran’s retaliatory attacks. As the region braces for further conflict, global attention is now focused on whether the United States—under President Trump—will join the fray, with a decision anticipated in the coming weeks.