Canada Urges Citizens to Leave the Middle East Immediately as Conflict Escalates

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Ottawa — The Government of Canada has issued an urgent advisory for all Canadians currently in the Middle East: leave the region now while commercial flights are still available and if you can do so safely.

The warning comes after a major escalation in armed conflict, including joint U.S.-Israel airstrikes on Iran on February 28, 2026, and retaliatory strikes by Iran against Israel and U.S.-linked targets across the region. The situation remains highly unpredictable, and further deterioration could happen without warning.

If the conflict escalates further, Canadians may not be able to leave the region, and the Government of Canada may not be able to provide consular services.

Situation Overview

On February 28, 2026, the United States and Israel launched joint airstrikes against Iran, causing multiple explosions in central Tehran and elsewhere in the country. Iran has since launched retaliatory strikes against Israel and U.S.-linked military and civilian installations throughout the region.

Given the scale and speed of these exchanges, the conflict could continue indefinitely.

What This Means for Civilians

There is an increased risk of attacks on civilian targets, especially those linked to U.S. interests. These include:

• Educational institutions
• Hotels
• Financial institutions
• Companies, including those in tech and artificial intelligence (AI)

Critical infrastructure has also been targeted, such as:

• Roads and bridges
• Energy and water supply facilities

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Which Countries Are Affected?

Canada has updated its travel advice for all destinations in the Middle East. Canadians are advised as follows:

Avoid All Travel To:

• Bahrain
• Iran
• Iraq
• Israel and Palestine
• Kuwait
• Lebanon
• Qatar
• Syria
• United Arab Emirates (UAE)
• Yemen

Avoid All Non-Essential Travel To:

• Jordan
• Oman
• Saudi Arabia

Bottom line: If you are in any of these countries, you should leave as soon as possible.

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Travel Advice for Canadians in the Middle East

If you are currently in the region, follow these steps immediately:

1. Leave While You Still Can

Commercial flights are still operating, but that could change at any moment. Do not wait.

2. Be Aware of Disruptions

Expect possible:

• Border closures or restrictions
• Flight cancellations
• Airspace closures (with little or no notice)

3. Stay Vigilant

• Follow all instructions from local authorities (e.g., shelter-in-place orders or evacuation orders)
• Keep your travel documents and those of your family up to date
• Monitor local and international news closely

4. Understand the Risk

The Government of Canada cannot guarantee the safety of Canadians abroad.

If you choose to stay despite this advisory, you may not be able to leave later, and consular help may not reach you.

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Impact on Travel and Security Worldwide

Even if you are not in the Middle East, your travel plans could be affected.

Flight and Airspace Disruptions

• Several Middle Eastern countries have closed their airspace
• Other countries may impose sudden restrictions
• Flight cancellations are occurring regionally and globally

Fuel and Supply Chain Issues

The conflict has disrupted global fuel supplies. Some countries may face:

• Fuel shortages
• Disruptions to essential services
• Temporary measures to reduce fuel consumption

Global Security Repercussions

Escalating tensions could lead to:

• Protests and demonstrations worldwide
• Terrorist attacks in various countries

Be especially vigilant near:

• Places of worship
• Tourist areas
• Embassies and consulates
• Military installations

Iran has specifically threatened to strike locations associated with the United States and Israel.

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Emergency Aid for Canadians in the Middle East

The Government of Canada remains committed to helping Canadians, but their ability to assist will decrease if the situation worsens.

What to Do If You Need Help

If you require emergency consular assistance, contact Global Affairs Canada’s Emergency Watch and Response Centre — open 24/7.

Email: ME-MO.SOS@international.gc.ca
Phone (collect calls accepted): +1-613-996-8885
SMS: +1-613-686-3658
WhatsApp: +1-613-909-8881
Signal: +1-613-909-8087

You can also contact the nearest Canadian office in your region.

Important: The number of Canadians seeking assisted departure has decreased significantly. Most have already left. If you are still in the region, you are strongly encouraged to leave by commercial means.

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Required Travel Documents for Canada or a Safe Third Location

If you plan to travel to Canada or to a safe third country, you must have valid travel documents now. Do not wait.

For Canadian Citizens and Permanent Residents

Ensure the following:

• Your passport is valid. Many countries will refuse entry if your passport expires within the next 6 months.
• You have a valid visa (electronic or printed) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) if required.
• Permanent residents should check their PR card status.

For Family Members (spouse and dependent children)

You must also have valid travel documents. Without them, the Government of Canada may be extremely limited in its ability to help you leave.

Useful Links

• Apply for a new passport abroad
• Renew your permanent resident card outside Canada
• Visit Canada – entry requirements

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Tips and Information by Destination

Country	Advisory Level	Link
Saudi Arabia	Avoid all non-essential travel	View advisory
Bahrain	Avoid all travel	View advisory
United Arab Emirates	Avoid all travel	View advisory
Iraq	Avoid all travel	View advisory
Iran	Avoid all travel	View advisory
Israel	Avoid all travel (with regional warnings)	View advisory
Jordan	Avoid all non-essential travel	View advisory
Kuwait	Avoid all travel	View advisory
Lebanon	Avoid all travel	View advisory
Oman	Avoid all non-essential travel	View advisory
Palestine	Avoid all travel	View advisory
Qatar	Avoid all travel	View advisory
Syria	Avoid all travel	View advisory
Yemen	Avoid all travel	View advisory

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Register with the Government of Canada

If you are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident in the Middle East — or a family member of one — register immediately with the Registration of Canadians Abroad Service.

This allows the government to:

• Send you critical updates
• Locate you in an emergency
• Provide consular assistance

Register here: Registration of Canadians Abroad

If you cannot register yourself, a relative can do it on your behalf. Be sure to include your telephone number.

Already registered? Double-check that your contact information is up to date.

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Final Reminder

The decision to travel is always the sole responsibility of the traveller. But the Government of Canada is now saying clearly: do not travel to the Middle East. If you are there, leave now.

Conditions can change in minutes. Airspace closes. Flights stop. Borders shut. Do not wait until it is too late.

For the latest updates, always check: travel.gc.ca

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This article is based on official information from Global Affairs Canada as of April 7, 2026. Situations can change rapidly. Always refer to the official travel advice and advisories for the most current information.

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