Australia has ordered all non-essential government officials stationed in Israel and the United Arab Emirates to leave as security conditions in the Middle East deteriorate.

Australia’s foreign minister, Penny Wong, announced the move, citing the region’s rapidly deteriorating security situation. Wong stated that while non-essential personnel are being removed, essential Australian officials will remain in both countries to assist Australian citizens who may require assistance.

The Australian government has also reiterated its travel advisory, urging citizens not to visit Israel or the United Arab Emirates, warning that the security situation could deteriorate further.

In a message shared on social media platform X, Wong urged Australians currently in the region to leave while commercial travel options remain available. “We urge you to leave the Middle East if you can and if it’s safe to do so,” she said. “Don’t wait until it’s too late. It may be the last chance for some time.”

According to the government in Canberra, approximately 115,000 Australian nationals are currently across the Middle East, and about 2,600 citizens have already returned home since the escalation of tensions in the region.