image sourced from original article at Families of Australian diplomats in Israel and Lebanon have been advised to leave due to escalating and unpredictable security tensions in the Middle East. The government has also offered voluntary departures to dependents of diplomats stationed in the United Arab Emirates, Jordan and Qatar as a precautionary measure. Despite the move, Australian embassies in Tel Aviv, Beirut, Amman, Doha and Abu Dhabi, along with the consulate in Dubai, remain open.
The warning follows renewed strain in the region after the President of the United States outlined plans for a possible attack on Iran, stating that Iran would not be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon. Iran and the United States recently resumed negotiations, even as Washington increases its military presence in the region.
Iran has threatened to target United States bases if it is attacked, although its senior diplomat has indicated that a diplomatic agreement remains within reach. Australian officials continue to urge citizens in Israel and Lebanon to consider leaving while commercial travel options remain available, as opposition leaders stress the importance of heeding the government's advice amid rising tensions.
