Situation in the Middle East

The Ministry for Foreign Affairs has been contacted by Finnish people currently in the Middle East. The situation in the region is serious and a cause for concern. For the time being, it is difficult to predict how long the situation will last.

Due to the challenging security situation, it is not easy to obtain information and to form an overall picture. Persons currently in the region are advised to stay in a safe place, avoid the proximity of windows and refrain from unnecessary movement within cities. The instructions of local authorities should be followed only from reliable sources; local authorities are responsible for regional instructions.

In due course, when the situation calms down and air traffic in the region gradually resumes, it is good to keep in mind that organising return flights will take time for all travellers regardless of their nationality. The suspension of air traffic also affects other areas besides the Middle East, for example Asia and Finnish people travelling there.

It is important to monitor the situation concerning the borders of the country in question as well as the neighbouring countries and obtain information about the entry procedures. As soon as movement in the region becomes safe, air services from neighbouring countries can also be utilised. The Finnish missions abroad aim to provide information about the border situation.  

Persons staying in the region are advised to submit a travel notification and, if necessary, notify their family members of their situation.