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

The decision was announced by Foreign Minister Penny Wong, who said the move was necessary in response to the rapidly worsening security environment in the region. Wong stated that while non-essential personnel are being withdrawn, essential Australian officials will remain in both countries to provide consular support to Australian citizens who may require assistance.

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

In a statement posted on social media platform X, Wong encouraged Australians currently in the region to depart 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 government figures in Canberra, approximately 115,000 Australian nationals are currently in the Middle East, while about 2,600 citizens have returned to Australia since tensions in the region escalated.