Irish Citizens in Gulf States Advised to Shelter as Tensions Escalate Following Khamenei’s Death

Irish citizens residing in Gulf states have been urged by Minister for Foreign Affairs Helen McEntee to adopt a “shelter in place” strategy amid escalating tensions following the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. With reports of explosions across the region, and Iran vowing its “most intense operation” in retaliation for the killing, the Irish government is advising against travel and recommending those in the region remain secure.

Escalating Regional Instability

The situation rapidly deteriorated after Ayatollah Ali Hosseini Khamenei was killed in a joint US-Israeli strike on Saturday morning. This event has triggered a series of retaliatory actions, including missile strikes targeting multiple Gulf states. The US and Israel have described their actions as a “pre-emptive” strike against Iran’s nuclear program, according to reports.

Government Advice to Irish Citizens

Minister McEntee estimates that up to 20,000 Irish citizens are currently in the Middle East, with a significant number residing in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Kuwait. No evacuation routes are currently recommended for those in Gulf countries. The Embassy of Ireland in Abu Dhabi is closely monitoring the situation and urging all Irish citizens in the UAE, Qatar, and Kuwait to register with the Citizen’s Register at https://t.co/DISSl8kxOl.

Citizens are strongly advised against attempting to travel to neighboring countries, such as Oman, via land routes. A 24/7 consular line has been established to provide assistance and updates.

Experiences on the Ground

Michaela Piare, an Irish teacher working in Doha, Qatar, described the recent situation as increasingly active, with frequent missile alerts prompting shelter-in-place directives. Schools have transitioned to online learning as a precaution, and many businesses remain closed except for essential services like supermarkets. She reported witnessing waves of missile attacks, primarily targeting a US base in the area.

Daragh Meredith, an Irish teacher in Kuwait, reported feeling the impact of explosions in his apartment. He and his family, including a one-month-old daughter, are following safety procedures and remain in contact with the Irish embassy in Abu Dhabi. His mother-in-law is currently stranded in Kuwait due to airspace closures.

Travel Disruptions and Concerns

The closure of airspace in the Middle East is causing significant disruption to travel plans, particularly for those travelling between Ireland and Australia. Travel Extra editor Eoghan Corry highlighted the potential for tens of thousands of people to be displaced if airports remain closed for an extended period. The Irish Travel Agents Association advises travelers to check with their travel agents and insurance providers immediately.

Ongoing Monitoring and Support

The Department of Foreign Affairs continues to monitor the situation closely and provide support to Irish citizens in the region. Minister McEntee has spoken with the UAE’s Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan to express Ireland’s condolences and emphasize the safety of Irish citizens as a top priority.