Travel Advice Update: Middle East
The Department of Foreign Affairs has reviewed its travel advice for the Middle East Region. The Department will continue to monitor the situation closely and Irish citizens should be aware that this travel advice may be subject to change at short notice.
Iraq
The Department of Foreign Affairs continues to advise against all travel to Iraq. Civil unrest is widespread and the risk of sporadic violence remains high. As all EU missions have withdrawn from Baghdad it is not possible to provide consular assistance to Irish citizens in Iraq at the present time.
Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain
Irish citizens in these countries are urged to remain in contact with the Irish Embassy in Riyadh. There continues to be a threat of unrest following the military conflict in Iraq. Irish citizens should maintain a high level of vigilance, avoid large gatherings and demonstrations, take sensible precautions for personal security and be alert to developments.
Israel and the Occupied Territories
Irish citizens are advised against all travel to the West Bank and Gaza, and Irish citizens there are advised to leave. They are advised also not to travel to Israel's border with Lebanon. The risk of terrorist attacks in Israel and the Occupied Territories, including Jerusalem, remains high. Irish citizens should maintain contact with the Irish Embassy in Tel Aviv and remain alert to developments in the region.
Syria
Irish citizens in Syria are advised to ensure they are registered with the Irish Honorary Consulate in Damascus. In light of developments in Iraq, Irish citizens should maintain a high level of vigilance and take sensible precautions for their personal security.
Jordan
Pending the reopening of the Irish Honorary Consulate, Irish citizens in the country are advised to ensure they are registered with the British Embassy in Amman. Irish citizens should remain alert to political developments and take sensible precautions for their personal security.
Yemen
In the light of terrorist attacks in Yemen, Irish citizens are advised against all travel to that country. Irish citizens resident there are advised to consider leaving unless they regard their presence as essential.
