Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs has issued a travel warning for the Middle East after hundreds of pagers used by militant group Hezbollah exploded, killing at least nine people and wounding almost 3000 more in Lebanon and Syria.
Hezbollah has pointed the finger at Israel for what appears to be an escalation between the two warring parties. Israel has not yet responded.
As the security situation in the region continues to deteriorate, Australian officials have reiterated their travel advice.
READ MORE: ‘Cell phone is the killer’: Why Hezbollah uses pagers
Smarttraveller has urged Australians not to travel to Lebanon, where military action has increased and terrorist attacks could occur.
Those already in the country are told to “leave immediately while commercial flights remain available” as some airlines begin to postpone or cancel their flights.
“Further flight cancellations and disruptions could occur with little or no notice. You should take the first available flight and not wait for a preferred route,” Smarttraveller said.
“Beirut airport could close, and you may be unable to leave for an extended period.
“The Australian Government may not be able to assist you to leave in such circumstances.”
Australians are reminded to reconsider their need to travel to Israel, where there continues to be a “high threat of military and terrorist attacks”.
“We also advise do not travel to some areas, including border areas with Lebanon,” Smarttraveller said.
READ MORE: Jet’s passengers suffer bloody ears and noses mid-flight
“You should also reconsider whether you need to remain in Israel and if not, depart when it’s safe to do so.”
Residents are told not to travel to Gaza, border areas with Gaza, border areas with Lebanon and the West Bank.
“The ongoing military action in the Occupied Palestinian Territories could lead to increased tensions in other locations in the Middle East,” Smarttraveller said.
“Terrorist attacks can occur anywhere at any time. Be alert to personal safety risks.”
The situation in the Middle East is feared to worsen, with Iran’s ambassador to Lebanon injured and an eight-year-old girl killed in the pager explosions today.
The attack appeared to be a sophisticated and long-planned operation.
Australian citizens or permanent residents in Lebanon, Palestine and Israel can register with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s crisis registration portal.
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