Published on
September 20, 2025
In relation to growing global tensions in 2025, Syria has now joined Iran, Iraq, Yemen, Belarus, Venezuela, Burkina Faso, and Mali in Australia’s urgent travel warning which indicates the serious threats to safety and security in the area. These nations are dealing with rising levels of violence, political instability, and instability of safety and security which put the citizens and visitors in jeopardy. In relation to growing threats of violent confrontations, armed assaults, terrorism, and arbitrary detention and kidnapping, which are now occurring on a global scale, Australia is much concerned and is strongly advising not to travel to the region in the coming fall and winter. With the growing instability in the political context at the international level, Australians have been urged to be very careful and to review their plans to travel to these areas.
In the face of escalating global tensions, Australia has issued a critical travel warning, advising against all travel to Syria, Iran, Iraq, Yemen, Belarus, Venezuela, Burkina Faso, and Mali. These countries are currently experiencing significant political instability, security risks, and unpredictable conflict, with fall and winter of 2025 expected to bring heightened dangers for foreign nationals. This alert serves as an urgent call for Australians to avoid these regions and take immediate action if they are already present.
The security environments in these nations have become increasingly volatile due to ongoing conflicts, political unrest, and terrorist activities. The Australian government’s warning highlights the high risks faced by travelers in these regions, including the threat of armed conflict, kidnapping, arbitrary detention, and limited access to consular assistance. Below is a detailed analysis of the current situation in each of these countries, providing essential information to ensure the safety of those who may be in or planning to visit these areas.
Syria: Persistent Armed Conflict and Air Strikes Continue to Threaten Foreign Nationals
Syria remains one of the most dangerous places in the world for travelers, with ongoing armed conflicts and airstrikes that target both military and civilian sites. As of September 2025, the security situation in Syria remains dire, especially in the northeastern region, where clashes between armed groups and government forces continue. The Australian government has consistently advised against all travel to Syria due to the severe risks posed by the conflict, which includes the constant threat of airstrikes, bombings, and kidnappings.
In addition to the dangers posed by combat zones, foreign nationals in Syria face the risk of arbitrary detention, especially those traveling through conflict areas. Australia’s travel advisory warns that Israeli air strikes may continue throughout the country, including in Damascus, making any travel within Syria particularly perilous. Travelers currently in Syria should seek shelter in place and only consider leaving when it is safe to do so.
With increasing violence in the region and a lack of stability, the Australian government stresses the unpredictability of the situation. The risk of terrorist attacks is also high, with extremist groups targeting foreign interests. The closure of airports, borders, and airlines without warning is a significant concern, making it difficult for travelers to leave or enter Syria safely.
Iran: Growing Political Tensions and Increased Risk of Arbitrary Detention
Iran has been facing escalating political and military tensions, particularly with neighboring countries and the West. The Australian government has issued a stern travel advisory warning Australian citizens against visiting Iran, and strongly advising those currently in the country to leave as soon as possible if it is safe to do so.
The ongoing geopolitical instability in the region, exacerbated by tensions between Iran and Israel, has significantly worsened the security situation. Foreign nationals, particularly those with dual nationality, face the high risk of arbitrary detention. Iranian authorities have been known to arrest individuals without due process, and with the Australian Embassy in Tehran suspending operations, the ability to offer consular assistance has been severely limited.
The volatile security situation, along with the risks posed by potential protests and civil unrest, makes Iran a high-risk destination for travelers. Australians are also cautioned that international flights may be disrupted without notice, adding to the difficulties in leaving the country. Demonstrations are common and often turn violent, leading to injuries, arrests, and confrontations with security forces. Australians are advised to avoid all public gatherings and protests to minimize the risk of being caught in violent clashes.
Iraq: Terrorism, Kidnapping, and Violent Crime Persist
The security environment in Iraq remains one of the most volatile in the Middle East, and Australia has once again advised against all travel to the country. Iraq continues to face the dual threat of terrorism and violent crime, both of which have targeted foreign nationals in recent years.
The risk of kidnapping remains high, with foreign nationals, including aid workers and journalists, being prime targets for abduction by militant groups. In addition to the constant threat of violence, the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad has warned of an increased potential for terrorist attacks in the country, particularly in locations frequented by foreigners. The Australian government’s travel warning emphasizes the unpredictability of the security situation, with armed conflict, bombings, and shootings occurring without notice.
Travelers are urged to leave Iraq immediately if they are already in the country and to avoid all non-essential travel. The security situation is rapidly deteriorating, and border crossings with neighboring countries may be closed at short notice, further complicating the situation. Australians are advised to remain vigilant and keep up to date with the latest security updates from local authorities.
Yemen: A Nation Torn Apart by Civil War and Ongoing Violence
Yemen is one of the most dangerous countries in the world due to its ongoing civil war, which has resulted in widespread destruction and a humanitarian crisis. The situation in Yemen continues to deteriorate, with ongoing military operations against Houthi rebels, as well as violent clashes in major cities.
The Australian government has issued a firm warning against travel to Yemen, including the island of Socotra, which is also facing significant security challenges. Military operations, bombings, and airstrikes continue to impact both urban and rural areas, further intensifying the risks for foreign nationals. With very limited access to basic services like healthcare and food, the humanitarian situation is critical, and foreign nationals are strongly urged to leave Yemen if they are able to do so safely.
The Australian government also highlights the very high risk of kidnapping in Yemen, particularly in major cities such as Sana’a, Aden, and Ta’izz. As the security situation remains highly unpredictable, those still in Yemen should seek professional security advice and carefully consider their options for leaving.
Belarus: Political Unrest and Authoritarian Crackdowns
Belarus has seen increasing political unrest, with protests against the ruling regime met by violent crackdowns from security forces. The country’s ongoing political crisis, coupled with harsh penalties for dissent, has made it a dangerous destination for foreign nationals.
Australia has advised against all travel to Belarus, citing the increasing likelihood of arrest for those caught in protests or involved in any political activity. The government’s ability to assist in Belarus is severely limited, as dual nationals face a particularly high risk of detention without due process. With political tensions expected to escalate throughout the fall and winter, travelers are strongly advised to avoid Belarus altogether.
In addition to the political instability, Belarus’ close ties to Russia, which is actively involved in military operations along the Belarusian-Ukrainian border, further complicate the security situation. The Australian government urges those currently in Belarus to leave immediately and to avoid any attempts to cross into Ukraine or other bordering countries, as the security environment remains volatile.
Venezuela: Economic Collapse and Rising Crime Threats
Venezuela’s ongoing political and economic crises have led to widespread instability, with high levels of violent crime, shortages of essential goods, and a deteriorating healthcare system. The Australian government has issued a strong advisory urging against travel to Venezuela, highlighting the country’s inability to provide adequate safety and services for foreign nationals.
In addition to the risks posed by violent crime, including armed robberies and kidnappings, Venezuela’s economic collapse has led to severe shortages in food, water, and medical supplies. These shortages, coupled with the country’s volatile political environment, create a dangerous situation for travelers. Australians in Venezuela are urged to consider leaving as soon as possible, as international flight options may be limited or canceled without notice.
The Australian government also warns of the potential for violent protests, which are likely to intensify as political tensions rise. Demonstrations can quickly escalate into violent confrontations with security forces, putting foreign nationals at significant risk.
Burkina Faso: Escalating Terrorism and Kidnapping Risks
Burkina Faso, located in West Africa, is facing increasing threats from extremist militant groups, resulting in widespread insecurity across the country. The Australian government has issued a travel advisory warning Australians to avoid all travel to Burkina Faso due to the high risk of terrorism, kidnapping, and violent crime.
Foreign nationals, particularly those involved in aid work and international business, are at heightened risk of kidnapping. The country’s capital, Ouagadougou, has also witnessed several attacks on foreign interests, including businesses and international organizations. The Australian High Commission in neighboring Accra has limited capacity to provide consular assistance, further complicating the situation for Australians in Burkina Faso.
With the security situation deteriorating, travelers are advised to stay informed and avoid all public gatherings and demonstrations, which have the potential to turn violent. Australians should also be prepared to leave the country at short notice if the situation worsens.
Mali: High Threat of Terrorism and Kidnapping
Mali, a country in West Africa, continues to be plagued by terrorism, kidnapping, and violent crime. The Australian government has issued a strong travel advisory, warning Australians not to visit Mali due to the ongoing security threats in the country. Terrorist groups have targeted foreign nationals and local authorities, leading to numerous casualties.
The risk of kidnapping in Mali, particularly in the southern regions, remains high, and foreign nationals working in the country are at a higher risk. The Australian government advises all travelers to leave Mali immediately if they are already there and to avoid all non-essential travel to the region.
The security situation in Mali is unpredictable, with frequent attacks on both civilian and military targets. The government has urged Australians to exercise extreme caution and stay updated on the latest developments, as the country’s security environment remains precarious.
As global tensions continue to escalate, the Australian government has issued urgent travel warnings for Syria, Iran, Iraq, Yemen, Belarus, Venezuela, Burkina Faso, and Mali. These regions are facing heightened risks of instability, armed conflict, terrorism, and violent crime, making travel extremely dangerous. Australian nationals are advised to reconsider their travel plans and, if already in these countries, to seek safe exit options immediately.
Australia’s recent warning regarding travel to Syria, Iran, Iraq, Yemen, Belarus, Venezuela, Burkina Faso, and Mali, aligns with increasing global tensions and risks regarding armed conflict, terrorism, kidnapping, and instability during the upcoming fall and winter seasons.
With conditions set to worsen in the fall and winter of 2025, the safety of travelers should remain a top priority. Monitoring official travel advisories and seeking professional security advice are essential steps to ensuring personal safety during these uncertain times.
