The UK government has issued its highest-level travel warning for Israel, as the nation endures a third consecutive day of air strikes targeting Iranian cities, and Iranian missiles continue to hit central Israel.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) now officially advises against all travel to Israel, following a rapid escalation of hostilities that has already claimed dozens of lives and disrupted airspace across the region.

Situation Rapidly Deteriorating

A statement from the FCDO said:

"We recognise this is a fast-moving situation that poses significant risks. The situation has the potential to deteriorate further, quickly and without warning."

The warning notes that missile fragments have already caused injuries, and a nationwide state of emergency remains in effect in Israel, declared on Friday (June 13) after Israel’s surprise strikes on nuclear and military targets inside Iran.

Those strikes are believed to have killed several Iranian generals and nuclear scientists, further inflaming tensions.

Airspace Closure and Travel Insurance Risks

The UK government emphasised that Israeli airspace remains closed, and warns that:

• Road links and border crossings may be disrupted without notice

• Falling missile debris poses a direct threat to civilians

• Ignoring FCDO guidance could invalidate travel insurance

Additionally, red zones now include Gaza, the West Bank, the Golan Heights, and all of Israel proper under the new advisory.

UK Military Precautionary Deployment

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer confirmed on Saturday that additional RAF Typhoon jets and refuelling aircraft have been sent to the region to protect British assets.

Speaking on Sky News, Chancellor Rachel Reeves clarified:

"No, it does not mean that we are at war. And we have not been involved in these strikes or this conflict, but we do have important assets in the region and it is right that we send jets to protect them."

Further Information & Safety Guidance

Travellers in the region are urged to:

• Monitor FCDO travel updates at gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

• Avoid any projectile debris

• Seek shelter immediately during air raid sirens

• Contact local authorities if exposed to fragments or suspected missile impact areas

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