An urgent travel alert has been issued for Australians planning to visit or transit through Qatar, a popular global transit hub. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), through its Smartraveller service, elevated Qatar’s travel advice level from Level 1 to Level 2, urging travellers to “exercise a high degree of caution.” This change stems from the rising hostilities in the Middle East, which could lead to broader regional instability, including potential airspace closures, flight cancellations, or travel disruptions. The advisory warns that demonstrations and protests could erupt with little notice, and it advises avoiding all such gatherings.

Despite the increased risk, the government is not advising against travel to Qatar entirely. A Level 2 alert means travellers should be more cautious than usual and take extra safety measures. The advisory clarifies that the risks in Qatar are now greater than what one would typically encounter in a large Australian city. Travellers are encouraged to monitor news outlets for updates and stay informed about any potential developments in the region that could affect their safety or travel plans.

This advisory comes amid worsening conditions in the broader Middle East, particularly between Israel and Iran. Australia recently shut down its embassy in Tehran, instructing all foreign affairs personnel and their families to evacuate due to escalating threats. Consular teams have been dispatched to neighboring Azerbaijan to assist Australians trying to flee Iran. Foreign Minister Penny Wong urged Australians to leave Iran as soon as possible if they can do so safely and said efforts are ongoing to help those who choose or are forced to remain.

Meanwhile, over 1,200 Australians remain registered for help in leaving Israel, where the airspace remains closed. The continuing conflict between Israel and Iran began when Israel launched an attack against Iran’s missile infrastructure, citing fears over nuclear development. Retaliatory strikes from Iran and further Israeli bombings have led to a growing death toll on both sides. According to a Washington-based human rights group, over 600 Iranians have died, with more than 1,300 wounded. Israel reports at least 24 fatalities and hundreds of injuries from Iranian strikes.

Adding to global tension, former President Donald Trump has indicated that the United States may soon enter the conflict on Israel’s side. According to his press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, Trump is weighing the likelihood of diplomatic negotiations with Iran before making a final decision, expected within the next two weeks. This uncertainty is contributing to a sense of instability throughout the region, prompting countries like Australia to reassess and tighten their travel advisories for locations like Qatar that could be impacted by expanding hostilities.