KINGSTON, Jamaica—The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade is urging Jamaican nationals to avoid non-essential travel to the Middle East amid heightened instability, particularly to countries experiencing armed conflict or civil unrest, including Israel, Palestine, Qatar and Iran.

The ministry, in an advisory Monday evening, says the government is closely monitoring escalating tensions and heightened instability in the Middle East.

“The Government acknowledges that the situation remains unpredictable, with the potential for other countries in the region to be affected with little or no prior warning. Jamaican nationals are therefore urged to exercise heightened vigilance and to closely monitor official updates. At present, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade has no confirmed reports of Jamaican nationals present in Israel, Palestine and Iran. The ministry is, however, aware of Jamaicans living in Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates,” the ministry said.

The ministry said the Government of Jamaica will maintain close monitoring of the situation and remains prepared to provide consular support as needed. Individuals with information regarding Jamaican relatives or friends currently in the affected areas are urged to contact the ministry at consular@mfaft.gov.jm or via WhatsApp at (876) 391-8105.

Jamaican nationals currently residing in, or planning to transit through, these and other affected areas across the region are strongly advised to exercise extreme caution and to undertake the following precautionary measures:

• Remain vigilant and stay informed by monitoring credible news sources and official advisories.
• Ensure that all travel documents are valid and up to date.
• Comply fully with safety and security directives issued by local authorities.
• Ascertain the location of the nearest emergency shelter in the event of intensified hostilities.
• Formulate contingency plans for departure, particularly where personal safety may be at risk.

Nationals are also reminded that airport closures, airspace restrictions and border closures may occur without notice.