By Marlene Freeman

The government is strongly advising citizens to avoid non-essential travel to the Middle East, particularly to countries experiencing armed conflict or civil unrest.

This as tensions are escalating in that region.

In the past days, Iran and Israel have launched missile attacks on each other.

At the weekend, the United States launched massive strikes against three nuclear facilities inside Iran.

According to the BBC, last evening, US President Donald Trump said a “complete and total ceasefire” between Iran and Israel will take effect in the coming hours.

Despite this, the Jamaican Government said it is monitoring escalating tensions closely.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Jamaicans should avoid the State of Israel, the State of Palestine, the State of Qatar, and the Islamic Republic of Iran.

It said 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.

The Ministry said it has no confirmed report of Jamaican nationals present in Israel, Palestine, and Iran. However, it is aware of Jamaicans living in Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

It said it 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 [email protected] or via WhatsApp at (876) 391-8105.

In the meantime, Jamaicans residing in, or planning to transit through affected areas across the Middle East are strongly advised to exercise extreme caution and to remain vigilant.

They should stay informed by monitoring credible news sources and official advisories and comply fully with safety and security directives issued by local authorities.

They are also being urged to ascertain the location of the nearest emergency shelter in the event of intensified hostilities and formulate contingency plans for departure.

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

The government said it remains committed to the safety and well-being of nationals and continues to work in close coordination with international partners, honorary consuls and diplomatic missions in the region to monitor developments and respond as needed.

It said several Jamaican missions and consulates have been alerted and stand ready to assist in the event that an emergency response becomes necessary.