The UK Government has issued a stark new warning to British travellers as tensions between Israel and Iran continue to spiral, raising fears of a wider regional escalation.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) now advises against all travel to within 3km of the Jordan-Syria border, citing increasing security risks.
The warning comes amid growing concerns that ongoing hostilities between Israel and Iran could rapidly intensify, putting neighbouring countries, including Jordan, at heightened risk.
The FCDO webpage states:
“Travel disruption, including flight cancellations and airspace closures may occur. Demonstrations and protest activity may take place.
“You should:
monitor local and international media for the latest information
be vigilant and follow the instructions of local authorities
take shelter and stay away from windows if you hear air sirens. In the event of injuries or damage, call 911 immediately”
Military debris has reportedly fallen in several areas across the region, prompting urgent alerts for travellers and residents alike.
According to the FCDO, Jordanian airspace remains open, but authorities have cautioned that airports and airspace could shut at short notice. Britons planning to travel are urged to check with their airline and monitor international news for fast-moving developments.
Those already in Jordan should remain vigilant, stay indoors if air sirens sound, and call 911 immediately in the event of injuries or damage.
Despite the rising tensions, land border crossings from Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories into Jordan remain open, although the FCDO notes that operating hours may change without notice. Key crossings, including the King Hussein/Allenby Bridge, the Northern Sheikh Hussein crossing, and the Southern Wadi Araba crossing, are functioning but travellers should prepare for last-minute disruptions.
As demonstrations and protest activity are also possible, the UK government has reminded British nationals that no travel can be guaranteed safe, urging everyone to read the full travel guidance and take all necessary precautions.
The current conflict between Israel and Iran marks one of the most dangerous flashpoints in the Middle East in recent years. Tensions surged after Israel launched what it described as a “preemptive, precise” strike on Iranian military infrastructure, targeting nuclear and missile facilities and killing key commanders and nuclear scientists with a total of 224 people reported to have died.
Tehran has retaliated, launching missile and drone strikes against residential areas of Israel killing at least 24 civilians so far.