UK mounts operation to support thousands of Britons in Middle East
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Officials are understood to be working on plans to evacuate British nationals, should airspace remain closed.
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UK mounts operation to support thousands of Britons in Middle East 8 minutes ago Share Save Rachel Muller-Heyndyk Share Save The UK is mounting an operation to support at least 200,000 British nationals in the Gulf, as Iran continues to launch strikes in the region in response to an ongoing attack by Israel and the US. More than 94,000 Britons have registered their location and contact details to receive direct Foreign Office updates, with the majority being holidaymakers in the United Arab Emirates or people in transit at major hub airports. Government officials are understood to be formulating potential plans to evacuate UK nationals, should airspace in the region remain closed. Flights have been diverted or cancelled, with journeys to and from Tel Aviv, Dubai, Doha and other international hubs affected. The government has asked British nationals in Bahrain, Israel, Kuwait, the Palestinian territories, Qatar and UAE to register their presence to receive updates. British nationals are currently advised to stay where they are and follow the instructions of local authorities, as well as monitor the Foreign Office's travel advice, which officials expect to change rapidly. Speaking on Sunday evening, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said at least 200,000 British citizens were in the region, including residents, families on holiday and those in transit. He said Iran had launched sustained attacks across the region and had "hit airports and hotels where British citizens are staying". "I ask all our people in the region to please register your presence and follow Foreign Office travel advice," he added. "I know this is a deeply worrying time. And we will continue to do all we can to support you." British nationals transiting through Dubai and Doha are being advised to remain indoors in a secure location and avoid travelling outside if possible. This is the first time the government's crisis response programme has covered more than one country, and it has never previously h...
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