Red-List Nations

THE MIDDLE-EAST / ARABIAN PENINSULA

The Middle East region includes countries with diverse cultures, histories, and security situations. While many countries in the Middle East are safe for travelers, several others face significant security challenges due to various factors such as armed conflict, terrorism, political instability, and social unrest. Here's a list of some of the most dangerous countries in the Middle East:

DO NOT TRAVEL:

Syria: Syria has been engulfed in a devastating civil war since 2011, resulting in widespread violence, displacement of millions of people, and humanitarian crises.

Iraq: Iraq continues to grapple with instability and violence, including terrorism, sectarian tensions, and armed conflict, particularly in areas affected by the presence of ISIS and other militant groups.

Yemen: Yemen faces a complex humanitarian crisis, including armed conflict, famine, disease outbreaks, and internal displacement. The ongoing conflict has led to widespread suffering and insecurity.

Palestine (Gaza Strip and West Bank): The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has led to recurring violence and tensions in the Gaza Strip and parts of the West Bank, with periodic outbreaks of conflict and political unrest.

Iran: Iran faces geopolitical tensions, protests, terrorism threats and the risk of regional conflict. Travelers should stay informed about the latest developments and exercise caution.

RECONSIDER TRAVEL / EXERCISE HIGH LEVEL OF CAUTION:

Israel: While generally safe for tourists, Israel faces security risks including terrorism, political tensions, and occasional violence, particularly in areas near the Gaza Strip and the West Bank.

Lebanon: While Lebanon has made strides in terms of stability, the country faces challenges such as political instability, social unrest, and occasional security incidents related to regional tensions.

It's important to note that while these countries may face security challenges, they also have many safe and hospitable areas for travelers. However, travelers should exercise caution, stay informed about local conditions, and heed travel advisories issued by their governments and international organizations when visiting any destination in the Middle East. Additionally, travelers should respect local customs and laws to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.