The government of Australia has ordered all non-essential government officials stationed in Israel and the United Arab Emirates to leave as security conditions across the Middle East continue to deteriorate.
The announcement was made by Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong, who said the decision was taken due to the rapidly worsening security situation in the region. Wong explained that while non-essential personnel are being withdrawn, essential officials will remain in both countries to continue assisting Australian citizens who may need support.
The Australian government has also reinforced its travel advisory, warning citizens against travelling to Israel or the United Arab Emirates as the security environment could worsen further.
In a message posted on the social media platform X, Wong urged Australians currently in the region to leave while commercial travel options are still available.
“We urge you to leave the Middle East if you can and if it’s safe to do so,” she said. “Don’t wait until it’s too late. It may be the last chance for some time.”
According to the government in Canberra, about 115,000 Australian nationals are currently across the Middle East. Authorities added that approximately 2,600 citizens have already returned to Australia since tensions in the region escalated.
