Page updated 04 July 2025
Middle East security situation
Security
Middle East
Page updated 04 July 2025
A ceasefire is in place between Israel and Iran. Tensions in the region remain high and there is an ongoing risk of further military conflict. Remain security conscious when travelling in Israel or Iran, and monitor media for updates. Read our advice about keeping yourself safe when there is a threat of violence or conflict.
Commercial flights have resumed in Israel and Iran. Transportation, particularly flights, may continue to be disrupted at short notice. Contact your travel provider about air and land transport options and availability if you plan to depart
We continue to advise New Zealanders do not travel to Israel and Iran.
Read our travel advice for Iran
Read our travel advice for Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories
Your travel plans may be affected by the unpredictability of the current security situation. Any closures of airspace around transit hubs in the Middle East may impact flights globally, including delays and cancellations.
Your travel plans may be affected even if your destination is not in the Middle East. Contact your travel agent or airline to confirm your travel plans.
If you travel to or through the Middle East, you may be unable to leave if conflict escalates. Local security situations could get worse with little warning. We recommend you read our travel advice for any destinations you are travelling to or through. If you have concerns for your safety, or you're unsure about your intended travel plans, consider making alternative arrangements.
If the travel advisory for your destination on the SafeTravel website is 'Do not travel' or 'Avoid non-essential travel', New Zealanders should know that consular assistance may be limited or not available. That means the New Zealand Government may not be able to help you if you are detained, injured, or otherwise prevented from leaving these areas.
All New Zealanders travelling overseas should take out comprehensive travel insurance. Note your travel insurance policy may be affected if the travel advisory on the SafeTravel website for your destination is 'Do not travel' or 'Avoid non-essential travel'.
With commercial flight options becoming increasingly available, we encourage New Zealanders in Iran and Israel to reach out to their airline or travel provider to discuss options for departure.
If you already have a flight booking, or credit with your airline as a result of recently cancelled flights, we strongly recommend that you make urgent contact with them to confirm your departure arrangements.
Due to the volatility of the security situation, the New Zealand Embassy in Tehran has been temporarily closed from 19 June 2025 until further notice.
New Zealanders in need of consular assistance can now contact the New Zealand Embassy in Ankara, Türkiye. Contact details for the Embassy in Ankara can be found on the New Zealand Embassy to Türkiye page.
New Zealanders in need of urgent consular assistance can call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s 24/7 Consular Emergency Line on +64 99 20 20 20.
Demonstrations and unrest linked to the situation in the Middle East are occurring in countries worldwide. If you're travelling overseas, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and follow the instructions of the local authorities. Monitor local and international media for information about possible safety or security risks.
The Government respects the right of New Zealanders to engage in peaceful protests. New Zealanders also need to respect the laws of the country they are in. The reality is that some governments place more rules around protest activity than New Zealand.
New Zealanders should also be aware that protest actions may be contrary to visa conditions in some countries. In some countries, demonstrations without prior approval by authorities are unlawful.
If you require urgent consular assistance, please contact the New Zealand 24/7 Consular Emergency Line on +64 99 20 20 20.