Travel advisories have been issued for British citizens in Cyprus and Turkey due to the escalating conflict involving Iran, the US, and Israel, now in its fourth day. Extensive airspace restrictions are in place as the conflict expands across the region, with Israel and Hezbollah engaging in hostilities resulting in casualties in Lebanon.
An Iranian missile strike in Beit Shemesh, Israel, claimed nine lives, while another attack on a girls’ school left 153 individuals dead, according to Iranian authorities. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian condemned the actions as “barbaric.”
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has not issued ‘do not travel’ alerts for Turkey or Cyprus but advises against travel within 10km of the Syrian border due to the high risk of conflict and terrorism. The FCDO updated its guidance for travelers crossing the Iran-Turkey border, emphasizing the need to notify the British Embassy in Ankara before proceeding.
Concerns have arisen for Cyprus, located in close proximity to Lebanon and Syria, after a drone attack on the RAF base Akrotiri. The base is relocating non-essential personnel and families in response to the incident. The FCDO has updated travel advice for Cyprus, urging British nationals to follow instructions from local authorities.
British citizens in the region are advised to take necessary precautions based on their circumstances. The FCDO has set up a central advice hub for the latest updates and encourages registration for direct updates for those in Bahrain, Israel, Kuwait, Palestine, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.
Regularly check the FCDO advice for updates if traveling to or within the region.
