UK Joins Türkiye, Cyprus, Jordan, Philippines, Sri Lanka, And More As Australia Issues New Travel Advisory Amid Heightened Security Concerns

Published on December 4, 2025

Australia has released a new travel advisory, adding the UK to the list of nations where travelers are advised to be extremely cautious, along with Turkey, Cyprus, Jordan, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka. This revised advisory is a reaction to growing concerns about international security, such as terrorism, political upheaval, civil unrest, and unpredictable natural disasters that have impacted multiple regions. Australia is warning its citizens to stay vigilant, stay away from areas of unrest, and be ready for last-minute changes in travel plans as tensions rise and travel disruptions become more common.

As global security tensions rise and extreme weather events disrupt travel across multiple regions, Australia has issued a series of updated advisories urging travellers to adopt a high level of caution across several destinations. The notices highlight growing risks linked to terrorism, political unrest, natural disasters, and unpredictable regional conflicts. Each advisory outlines specific threats country-by-country, warning visitors to remain alert, avoid protests, monitor local developments, and be prepared for sudden changes to travel plans.

United Kingdom: Heightened Scrutiny Amid Terror Threat and Petty Crime

Travellers heading to the United Kingdom have been urged to exercise a high degree of caution due to a combination of petty crime, disruptive protests, and a significant terrorism threat. Incidents such as pickpocketing, mobile phone theft, bag snatching, and break-ins targeting parked cars remain widespread across major cities. Public gatherings can also turn turbulent, prompting authorities to ask visitors to avoid any areas where demonstrations are taking place.

The country’s terrorism threat level is classified as “substantial,” meaning an attack is considered likely. Factors such as extremism, political tensions, and security challenges in Northern Ireland contribute to this ongoing risk. Travellers are advised to stay alert in crowded places, take official warnings seriously, and follow any instructions issued by local authorities. Monitoring news updates is essential as security situations can evolve quickly.

Türkiye: Protests, Terror Threats, Earthquake Risks, and Border Tensions

Türkiye continues to face a complex mix of political unrest and security volatility. Large-scale protests have erupted in multiple regions, including major urban centres, sometimes escalating into violence with little warning. A strict ban on demonstrations has been implemented, and authorities have introduced movement restrictions targeting individuals suspected of participating in protest activities. Travellers are strongly encouraged to steer clear of gatherings and follow official guidance at all times.

The threat of terrorism remains high, with potential targets including tourist attractions, transport networks, popular shopping areas, hotels, places of worship, and diplomatic facilities. Visitors are urged to maintain a low profile, avoid crowded locations, and stay aware of their surroundings.

Türkiye is also located in an active earthquake zone, making aftershocks and tremors a recurring concern. Travellers should identify local shelters, understand emergency protocols, and stay vigilant for natural disaster alerts.

Australia advises against travel within ten kilometres of the Syrian border due to a serious risk of terrorist activity, armed clashes, and cross-border attacks. The provinces of Hakkari and Sirnak are also considered high-risk, with travellers encouraged to reconsider any plans to visit these regions.

Complicating matters further, Middle East instability has caused occasional airspace disruptions. Should tensions escalate again, travellers may face sudden flight cancellations or diversions.

Cyprus: Buffer Zone Tensions and Limited Support in the North

Travellers to Cyprus are being advised to maintain a high degree of caution due to longstanding political divisions and the presence of a UN-controlled buffer zone separating the island’s northern and southern regions. While the Republic of Cyprus administers the south, the north is controlled by a self-declared authority not recognised by many international governments. As a result, consular assistance in the northern part is extremely limited.

Tensions and localised conflicts can occur within or near the UN-protected buffer zone, especially following public demonstrations. Visitors are urged to avoid these locations immediately after any disturbances, as emotions can remain heightened. Pickpocketing and bag snatching also occur in tourist hotspots, making situational awareness essential.

Although travellers do not require a visa for short stays, monitoring local developments and adhering to security advice is strongly recommended.

Jordan: Regional Tensions, Border Risks, and Unpredictable Protests

Jordan remains a popular destination for cultural and historical travel, yet the region’s broader instability continues to pose safety challenges. Travellers are urged to exercise a high degree of caution, particularly due to terrorism threats and deteriorating security conditions along the Syrian and Iraqi borders.

Unrest in neighbouring countries has occasionally led to cross-border attacks targeting security installations within Jordan. As a result, visitors are discouraged from travelling to these border regions. The local situation can also be influenced by missile and drone activity linked to regional conflicts. While these incidents may not be directed at Jordan, debris falling after failed interceptions could pose unexpected risks.

Public demonstrations can emerge quickly, often triggered by regional political developments. These gatherings may strain local security resources and result in sudden road closures or movement restrictions. Travellers are advised to avoid protest zones entirely and stay informed through local authorities and media updates.

In light of fluctuating regional tensions, airspace closures and flight disruptions remain possible, making travel flexibility crucial.

Philippines: Extreme Weather, Terrorism Threats, and High-Risk Southern Regions

The Philippines is currently dealing with a series of extreme weather events, including heavy rainfall and strong winds that have triggered flash flooding, landslides, and widespread disruption to transport networks. Flight cancellations and airport closures have been reported, while essential services in affected areas may be temporarily unavailable.

Travellers must stay alert to changing conditions, understand evacuation procedures at their accommodation, and monitor official forecasts from weather agencies. Typhoons, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis are all common in the country, underscoring the need for careful planning and awareness.

Terrorism remains a significant concern, particularly in the south. Australia advises against all travel to central and western Mindanao, including the Sulu Archipelago and the southern Sulu Sea area, due to an extremely high risk of terrorist attacks and kidnappings. Travel to eastern Mindanao should also be reconsidered because of political violence and terrorism threats. Popular targets include airports, public transport, shopping malls, hotels, religious sites, and major events.

Foreigners are prohibited from joining demonstrations, and those who do may be detained or deported. Protests can also disrupt transport and may escalate without warning. Using official ride-sharing apps or hotel-arranged transportation is recommended to minimise the risk of robbery or scams.

Sri Lanka: Cyclone Damage, Flooding, Landslides, and Security Concerns

Sri Lanka is experiencing widespread disruptions following the impact of Cyclone Ditwah, which has caused flooding, landslides, and damage to vital infrastructure. Transport links—including roads, railways, and essential utilities—have been heavily affected in some areas. Local authorities continue to impose road closures, particularly in regions where landslides remain a threat.

Travellers in affected areas are advised to move to higher ground, follow emergency instructions, and stay closely connected with travel providers for itinerary updates. Floodwaters should never be crossed due to health and safety risks.

Security risks persist, including the potential for terrorism. Popular tourist centres and coastal destinations may be targeted, making vigilance essential. Additionally, public demonstrations can occur across the country, disrupting movement and access to key areas. Visitors are advised to avoid these gatherings entirely.

Morocco: Demonstrations, Border Sensitivities, and Terrorism Risks

Morocco continues to be classified under an advisory of exercising a high degree of caution, primarily due to political demonstrations and the threat of terrorism. Protests can occur with little warning, especially on Fridays, and have the potential to disrupt movement in urban centres. Travellers are encouraged to avoid these gatherings and follow the advice of local authorities.

Heightened caution is also urged near the Berm, a militarised boundary separating Moroccan-controlled territory from the disputed Western Sahara region. Australia advises travellers not to enter areas within thirty kilometres of the northern and western sides of the Berm or any zones south and east of it due to the risk of armed conflict. The presence of the Polisario Front, an active independence movement, increases the unpredictability of security conditions in the region.

Terrorism remains an overarching concern, with potential targets including tourist zones, marketplaces, transportation hubs, and public venues. Travellers should remain vigilant and keep track of local news developments.

A Changing Global Landscape for Travellers

Across all the countries included in the advisories, a common theme emerges: rising global uncertainty. Whether driven by political unrest, extremist threats, natural disasters, or regional conflict spillovers, travellers must now approach international trips with greater awareness and flexibility.

The advisories stress three core principles:

• Stay informed through reputable news sources and official alerts.
• Avoid protests, crowded public spaces, and sensitive border regions.
• Prepare for disruptions, from flight cancellations to sudden security restrictions.

Amid growing security concerns, Australia has broadened its travel advisory, adding the UK to a growing list of nations, including Cyprus, Turkey, Jordan, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka. The new advisory urges Australian travelers to be more cautious and informed due to the growing threats posed by terrorism, political instability, and regional conflicts.

As conditions can shift rapidly, travellers are encouraged to plan thoroughly, register with relevant consular services, and remain ready to adjust their itineraries at a moment’s notice.