**British Citizens in Israel Urged to Register Amid Rising Tensions in the Middle East**
All British nationals currently in Israel have been strongly encouraged by the UK government to register with the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) as a matter of urgency. This move comes as tensions between Israel and Iran continue to escalate, raising concerns over the safety of foreign citizens in the region.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy has emphasised that this registration is crucial for Britons seeking up-to-date information and guidance on how to leave Israel, should the situation further deteriorate. Speaking in Parliament on Monday, Mr Lammy reiterated that “the first priority of the UK Government is the welfare and security of British nationals.” To support this, a rapid deployment team is being mobilised to Egypt, and details about border crossings are now being regularly updated on the Foreign Office website.
“The situation across the region is extremely volatile,” Mr Lammy told MPs during a statement to the House of Commons. “We are asking all British nationals in Israel to register their presence with the FCDO as soon as possible, to ensure we can communicate vital information related to their safety, including the latest on potential routes out of the country.”
Complicating matters further, both Israeli and Iranian airspace remains closed amidst the ongoing crisis. This has severely restricted the British government’s ability to offer consular support in Iran, should any nationals find themselves there. Mr Lammy urged anyone in the region to closely follow the official travel advice and remain alert to further updates.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, speaking from the G7 summit in Canada, echoed these sentiments, underscoring the coordinated effort among G7 nations to protect their citizens. “All of us are advising our nationals in Israel to register their presence,” Sir Keir said. “A dedicated portal is being provided for this process, which is in line with measures other G7 countries are taking in response to the escalating conflict.”
The increasingly tense Middle East situation has become the dominant topic at the gathering of world leaders. “It’s quite clear that the conflict between Israel and Iran is the primary concern here at the G7,” Sir Keir commented, reinforcing the need for urgent diplomacy. “I’ve held discussions with President Trump, Prime Minister Netanyahu, and leaders from across the G7 in recent days.”
These conversations revealed a shared commitment to de-escalation, Sir Keir continued, noting that any intensification of the conflict could have far-reaching consequences not only for the immediate region but for global stability more widely. “What is needed now is clarity and unity of purpose in working towards reducing hostilities, as the potential for escalation is plain to see,” he said.
Sir Keir also addressed broader fears that without a concerted push for de-escalation, the conflict could spread beyond the current hotspots. “The risks extend beyond Israel and Iran,” he pointed out, “affecting nearby regions such as Gaza—which remains incredibly vulnerable—and threatening economic stability further afield.”
He concluded by stressing the urgency of ongoing diplomatic efforts and the necessity of maintaining a focus on preventing further violence. “Gaza is already a tinderbox, and while the international community deliberates, the lives of many hang in the balance,” the Prime Minister warned.
As the situation develops, UK officials are urging all British citizens in Israel to monitor the FCDO’s travel guidance, register via the appropriate channels, and prepare necessary arrangements in case a swift departure becomes necessary. The government continues to evaluate the security landscape and is expected to issue further updates as events unfold.