Recent travel advisories have been issued for British citizens in both Cyprus and Turkey due to the escalating tensions involving Iran, the US, and Israel now entering its fourth day.
A significant portion of global airspace has been completely closed off as the conflict continues to expand across the area. Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon have engaged in hostilities, resulting in casualties. The Lebanese health ministry has reported at least 31 deaths and 149 injuries from Israeli attacks in Beirut and southern Lebanon.
In a recent development, an Iranian missile strike in Beit Shemesh, Israel, claimed the lives of nine individuals. Additionally, Iranian officials disclosed that a strike on a girls’ school resulted in the death of at least 153 people. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian condemned the incident as a “barbaric act.”
If you have been affected by these events and are in a safe position to do so, please contact webtravel@reachplc.com
It is worth noting that as of now, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has not issued ‘do not travel’ alerts for Turkey or Cyprus. These warnings are crucial as they indicate severe risks such as conflict, terrorism, or civil unrest, which can void travel insurance instantly, leaving travelers accountable for any accidents or medical expenses.
However, the FCDO does recommend avoiding all travel within 10km of the Syrian border due to ongoing conflict and an increased risk of terrorism. Traveling against FCDO advice could invalidate your travel insurance.
Recently, the FCDO updated its guidance for travelers planning to cross the Iran-Turkey border. The border remains open for UK and Iranian passport holders without the need for a visa.
If you are a British national intending to cross the land border from Iran to Turkey, you must contact the FCDO through the British Embassy in Ankara before your travel. You are required to provide personal details and specific travel information. It is essential to note that crossing the Iran-Turkey land border carries risks, especially if you hold a British passport or are perceived to have UK connections.
Concerns have also arisen for Cyprus, located less than 100km from Lebanon and Syria. Reports indicate that the RAF base Akrotiri in Cyprus was targeted by a one-way attack drone, resulting in no injuries.
Following the attack, the base is relocating families and non-essential personnel temporarily. Cyprus is home to around 30,000 British residents, with 1.3 million UK visitors annually.
The FCDO updated its travel advice for Cyprus today, confirming a suspected drone impact at RAF Akrotiri. British nationals in the Sovereign Base Areas are advised to follow instructions from the Sovereign Base Areas Administration, while those in the Republic of Cyprus should adhere to guidance from local Cypriot authorities.
The FCDO has issued general advice for individuals