If you or someone you love is stuck in war zones across the Middle East right now, you’re not alone and you’re not without options.
As Team Marhabein puts this guide together, thousands of travellers, tourists, and expats remain stuck in war zones like Israel, Iran, and nearby regions. Tensions have surged dramatically following ongoing strikes and military operations, with countries around the world issuing urgent travel warnings.
Israel’s Ministry of Tourism has confirmed that tens of thousands of foreign nationals are still within its borders amid the latest conflict escalation.
Whether you’re a visitor, on a work trip, or have family currently stuck in war zones, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to stay safe, how to get help, and how to navigate the chaos with clarity.
First Things First: Avoid Travel to Conflict Zones
If you’re considering travelling to Israel, Iran, or neighboring areas, press pause immediately. Most global governments, including the UK, France, Germany, Australia, and more, have issued do-not-travel warnings for these countries.
Key airports like Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion are currently shut down, and airspace over Israel and Iran is restricted or entirely closed. If you’re already stuck in war zones, it’s vital to stay alert and follow your embassy’s guidance closely.
For more information on countries you should avoid traveling to right now, read this helpful blog.
Register with Your Embassy NOW
If you are stuck in war zones in the Middle East, registering with your country’s embassy or consulate is a must.
This enables them to:
- Know your exact location
- Send timely alerts
- Assist with emergency evacuation (if and when arranged)
Many embassies have activated emergency consular protection and have set up direct lines of communication through WhatsApp or SMS updates.
Stay Updated Through Official Channels
Embassies and foreign ministries provide live updates on evacuation routes, safe shelters, and emergency contacts. Avoid relying on social media or hearsay. Bookmark your country’s travel advisory page, and enable notifications.
Examples:
- UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)
- U.S. State Department – STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program)
- France Diplomatie
If You’re Stuck in Israel During War: What to Do
- Airports are shut, so your best bet is land crossings into Jordan or Egypt.
- Stay near bomb shelters or know the closest one to you. Apps like Home Front Command provide instant alerts in Israel.
- Follow Israeli authority instructions, especially if you’re in areas like Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, or border towns.
- If you’re in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, the emergency number is 102—but response times may vary.
If You’re Stuck in Iran During War: What to Do
- Use land routes to exit the country. Many countries are coordinating evacuations via Azerbaijan, Turkey, and Turkmenistan.
- Call emergency services if needed:
- Fire/Rescue: 125
- Medical: 115
- Red Crescent: 112
- Police: 110
- Stay away from protests or political gatherings—foreigners may be detained or targeted.
- British passport holders or dual nationals are especially advised to lay low. Detention risks are higher in Iran.
General Safety Tips If You’re Stuck in War Zones
If you’re currently stuck in war zones, adopt the following precautions immediately:
- Stay Calm: Your best decisions come when you’re composed.
- Do Not Pick Up Weapons: Even if offered “for safety” or photos. It marks you as a combatant.
- If under fire, run unpredictably and in zigzag movements. Move across the line of fire, not away from it.
- Avoid unknown buildings or empty fields: Could contain unexploded ordnance or landmines.
- Always carry your documents and keep them handy at borders or checkpoints.
- Avoid confrontations with authorities, even if situations seem unjust or tense.
- Plan every movement, especially at night. Stay in well-known or embassy-recommended shelters.
Also Read More About Emergency Shelter in Bahrain
What About Travel Insurance?
Most travel insurance policies do not cover acts of war or terrorism. However, some premium packages may offer:
- Emergency evacuation
- Crisis assistance
- Reimbursement for trip interruption
If you’re stuck in war zones, contact your insurer directly to confirm what’s covered. Some companies are temporarily extending humanitarian coverage due to the crisis.
Challenges of Leaving Iran or Israel Right Now
Being stuck in war zones doesn’t just mean physical danger; it also means logistical nightmares. Here are the biggest hurdles you can face:
- Airspace closures: Commercial flights are suspended.
- Long land routes: Travelers must use border crossings to Jordan, Egypt, Azerbaijan, or Turkey, often requiring multi-hour bus convoys.
- Fuel shortages in Iran make it difficult to reach borders.
- Unreliable infrastructure: Roadblocks, destroyed roads, or unmarked danger zones.
- Limited embassy presence: Some diplomatic missions have relocated (e.g., Bulgaria moved its embassy from Tehran to Baku).
- No coordination: Evacuees often must fend for themselves without organized convoys.
- Security checks and passport discrimination: British and Pakistani nationals face specific scrutiny.
If You’re Trying to Leave War Zones, Here’s the Best Advice
Here’s what we suggest you to do if you are stuck in war zones:
A) For Foreigners Stuck in Iran:
- Register with your embassy immediately.
- Move towards land borders: Azerbaijan, Turkey, Turkmenistan.
- Keep cash, documents, and a local SIM card with mobile data.
- Avoid regions experiencing direct military conflict.
- Stay in embassy-recommended shelters if possible.
B) For Foreigners in Israel:
- Head for land exits to Jordan or Egypt.
- Be prepared for frequent sirens and take shelter when warned.
- Avoid public places, especially high-profile areas.
- Some countries (France, Germany, Thailand) have begun organizing cross-border bus evacuations, register to join.
Wrap Up:
We understand how terrifying it must be to be stuck in war zones especially when you’re far from home. Our aim is to equip you or your loved ones with actionable, current, and honest advice during these tense times.
Whether you’re in the Middle East yourself or just worried for someone there, share this guide with anyone who might benefit. Every moment counts.
And remember: Staying informed, calm, and connected is your best shield when you’re stuck in war zones.
