Conflict in the Middle East continues to escalate as Israel has threatened even greater force as some Iranian missiles evaded Israeli air defences to strike buildings in the heart of the country.
The region braced for a protracted conflict after Israel’s surprise bombardment of Iran’s nuclear and military sites on Friday (June 13) killed several top generals and nuclear scientists, and neither side showed any sign of backing down.
Today (June 15), the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has said it advises “against all travel” to Israel, following the latest travel update.
UK Passport Renewal Guide
It comes as areas around Gaza, the West Bank and the Golan Heights were already classed as “red zones”.
Latest UK Foreign Office travel advice to Israel
Failure to follow the latest travel advice from the Foreign Office, which covers Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, means your travel insurance could be invalidated.
A statement on the government website says: “Iran has launched multiple rounds of missile and drone attacks against Israel.
“On 13 June a nationwide state of emergency was declared in Israel.
“This followed Israeli strikes against nuclear and military facilities in Iran. Israeli airspace remains closed.”
Can you still use a red passport in 2025?
It added: “We recognise this is a fast-moving situation that poses significant risks. The situation has the potential to deteriorate further, quickly and without warning. The current situation has disrupted air links out of the country and may disrupt road links.”
The Foreign Office also shared: “The interception of missiles over Israel and the OPTs may result in falling fragments or debris.
“If you encounter any projectile debris or fragments you should move away from them immediately and contact local authorities.”
See the latest updates on the government website.
Recommended reading:
Sir Keir Starmer confirmed on Saturday (June 14) that more RAF planes are being deployed, amid the escalating hostilities between Israel and Iran.
Additional refuelling aircraft have been deployed from UK bases and more fast Typhoon jets will be sent over, it is understood.
Asked whether the announcement from the Prime Minister means the UK is at war, Rachel Reeves told Sky News: “No, it does not mean that we are at war.
“And we have not been involved in these strikes or this conflict, but we do have important assets in the region and it is right that we send jets to protect them and that’s what we’ve done.
“It’s a precautionary move.”
