Australia has temporarily closed several diplomatic missions in the Middle East as concerns grow that the ongoing regional conflict involving Iran could intensify further in the coming weeks. Officials confirmed that embassies in Abu Dhabi and Tel Aviv, along with the consulate in Dubai, have been shut due to rising security risks linked to missile and drone attacks across the region.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong informed parliament that at least nine cities hosting Australian embassies and consulates have experienced missile or drone strikes since the conflict began. She warned that Iran’s retaliatory attacks are continuing on a large scale and reaching levels of intensity not seen previously, raising serious concerns about the safety of diplomatic staff and civilians.
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Due to the deteriorating security environment, Australian authorities also directed dependents of diplomatic personnel in the United Arab Emirates and Israel to leave the region. Officials stated that the decision aims to reduce potential risks to families while allowing diplomatic teams to focus on managing the evolving crisis and assisting citizens abroad.
The government has simultaneously increased efforts to help Australians stranded in the Middle East return home safely. Since the conflict began, more than 3,200 Australian citizens have managed to leave the region on 23 commercial flights arranged or facilitated with government assistance.
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Authorities noted that approximately 115,000 Australian citizens were present across the Middle East when the conflict initially erupted. The government continues to monitor the situation closely while coordinating with airlines and international partners to maintain evacuation and support services as limited commercial flights gradually resume.
Officials also emphasised that missile and drone attacks in the region pose serious risks to civilian populations and international personnel. They warned that the conflict is likely to intensify in the near future, prompting governments worldwide to reassess security measures and diplomatic operations across the Middle East.