Australia has raised its travel advisory for Qatar to Level 2, urging citizens to “exercise a high degree of caution.” The alert, issued via Smartraveller, follows “rising hostilities in the Middle East” that could cause flight delays, airspace closures, and sudden demonstrations. DFAT warns the risks in Qatar now exceed those “in a large Australian city.”

Although travel isn’t banned, officials recommend avoiding protests and staying updated through news sources. The situation remains volatile due to the Israel-Iran conflict, which escalated after Israel targeted Iranian missile sites. Iran responded with strikes, leaving “over 600 Iranians dead” and “1,300 wounded,” according to a U.S. human rights group. Israel has reported “at least 24 fatalities.”

Amid rising threats, Australia shut its Tehran embassy, evacuating staff and relocating consular support to Azerbaijan. Over 1,200 Australians are also registered for help leaving Israel, where airspace remains shut.

Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump may intervene. His press secretary said he’s considering “diplomatic negotiations with Iran” but hasn’t ruled out military involvement, adding to regional tension.

Travelers are urged to remain alert, reassess plans, and stay connected with official updates as the crisis unfolds.