Emirates flights: Airline axes all flights to three countries with 'do not travel' warning issued amid unrest in Middle East

Emirates Airlines has suspended all flights to three countries in response to escalating tensions and regional unrest in the Middle East. The airline announced that flights to and from Iraq, Iran, and Jordan are halted on October 4 and 5, with ongoing disruptions likely as the situation develops.

In a statement, Emirates explained that customers transiting through Dubai en route to these destinations will not be accepted for travel until further notice.

This move aims to prioritise passenger safety amid rapidly changing conditions in the region. "Emirates is cancelling all regular flights to/from Iraq (Basra and Baghdad), Iran (Tehran), and Jordan (Amman) on October 4 and 5 due to regional unrest," the airline said.

It added: "Impacted customers must contact their booking agents for alternative travel options or contact us if they have booked with Emirates directly. Customers are requested to ensure their contact details are correct by visiting Manage Your Booking to receive updates. We continue to closely monitor the situation in the region and are in contact with the relevant authorities regarding developments."

The advisory also affects travellers with layovers in Dubai, as those attempting to reach Iraq, Iran, or Jordan will not be allowed to board at their original point of departure. The British Foreign Office has urged citizens to avoid non-essential travel to the affected countries, with a "Do Not Travel" advisory for Iraq, as concerns grow about further escalations and the safety of travellers.

Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for the latest updates and alternative arrangements as the situation evolves. It comes after Iran launched almost 200 missiles towards Israel in retaliation for Israel's campaign against the Hezbollah group in Lebanon on Tuesday 1 October. The British government is working to evacuate hundreds of British nationals from Lebanon amid fears expressed by Prime Minister Keir Starmer of a regional war.