The Albanese Government continues to support Australians affected by the ongoing regional conflict in the Middle East as limited commercial flights resume and consular efforts expand across the region.
Our first priority is keeping Australians safe and we are working around the clock to help Australians who need it.
More than 3,000 Australians have now returned home on 21 direct commercial flights and further services are scheduled in coming days.
Two flights from Dubai are scheduled to arrive in Australia this morning, with a further two due to depart this afternoon. A flight from Doha is also scheduled to depart this evening.
Airports and airlines have advised that the overwhelming majority of Australian passengers stranded while transiting through the Middle East have now departed.
While airspace restrictions and intermittent closures around major transit hubs continue to cause delays and cancellations, commercial flights remain the fastest option for Australians to leave the Middle East.
We understand these are difficult decisions for Australians who live and work in the Middle East and we encourage those who do wish to leave to do so now on commercial flights.
Major airlines have extended their refund and free rebooking windows to assist passengers whose flights have been impacted.
Limited outbound commercial flights have begun to operate from Ben Gurion International airport in Israel and commercial flights continue to operate from Rafic Hariri International Airport in Lebanon.
The Government advises Australians if they can secure a commercial flight or other transport to leave Lebanon, and it is safe to travel to the departure point, they should consider doing so.
With airports closed in Kuwait and Bahrain, Australian officials are working with our partners on bus transportation to Riyadh enabling passengers to continue their journey on commercial flights.
Our ability to provide consular assistance in Iran is extremely limited.
Any Australians in Iran should prioritise their safety, monitor events and shelter in place during strikes.
We urge them to consider all available options to depart if it's safe to do so.
The 24/7 DFAT Crisis Centre remains activated, and the crisis registration portal is open for Australians in Bahrain, Iran, Israel, Kuwait, Qatar, Lebanon, and the United Arab Emirates.
We continue to advise Do Not Travel to most destinations in the Middle East.
Australians requiring urgent consular assistance can contact the 24/7 Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135 (within Australia) or +61 2 6261 3305 (from overseas).