Israel, Iran, Lebanon, and Syria currently pose significant security risks due to ongoing political tensions, regional conflicts, and unpredictable safety conditions. Hong Kong travelers are strongly advised to reconsider or postpone travel to these countries and closely monitor real-time updates from their embassies to ensure their safety and stay informed about rapidly changing situations.

Hong Kong authorities have issued a strong advisory urging residents to avoid non-essential travel to Israel and Iran, even as the government reduces the risk level for both countries from black to red. This change does not indicate that conditions have become safe. Officials emphasize that a red outbound travel alert still indicates a significant threat to personal safety, and travelers should carefully reconsider any plans to visit these regions.

The government’s advisory highlights that residents planning trips to Israel or Iran should actively adjust their itineraries and avoid non-essential travel. Hong Kong authorities stress that travelers need to remain vigilant, stay informed about local developments, and exercise extreme caution if travel is unavoidable. The red alert signals a continuing threat, including risks from ongoing political tensions, potential security incidents, and other hazards that could compromise safety.

The Immigration Department offers round-the-clock assistance to citizens traveling overseas through its 24-hour helpline at 852-1868. Travelers can also use the department’s mobile app, which includes the 1868 chatbot, for real-time guidance and updates. Additional assistance is available through the 1868 WhatsApp and WeChat lines, enabling residents to quickly report issues or seek help while overseas. The authorities have shared direct phone lines for the Chinese embassies in each country, including 972-3-5459520 for Israel and 98-912-2176035 for Iran. Residents can reach these embassies for urgent support, consular services, or emergency assistance.

In June, Hong Kong placed Israel and Iran under its highest-level travel warning, signaling extreme danger for residents considering visits. Black alerts indicate the highest level of danger, signaling extreme risk and strongly advising citizens to avoid all travel. The recent change from black to red does not eliminate the risks; it reflects updated assessments while acknowledging ongoing safety concerns. The government’s Outbound Travel Alert System monitors threats to personal safety across approximately 88 countries and regions popular with Hong Kong travelers. The system ranks destinations using three levels: black for the most severe threats, red for significant risks, and amber for moderate concerns.

Currently, black alerts remain in effect for Lebanon and Syria, reflecting continued instability and danger in those regions. Red alerts cover five countries, including Israel and Iran, where residents face significant safety challenges. Twenty additional countries and regions fall under amber alerts, indicating moderate risks that travelers should still monitor closely.

Hong Kong authorities recommend that travelers steer clear of Gaza and its neighboring areas, as well as territories close to the borders with Syria and Lebanon. These locations present heightened risks due to ongoing regional conflicts, military operations, and potential security incidents. Residents traveling in Israel should remain aware of local conditions, follow guidance issued by authorities, and take steps to protect themselves from any emerging threats.

In Iran, travelers should steer clear of Isfahan, Qom, Markazi, and Bushehr provinces. These areas have been identified as posing particular safety risks, which may include civil unrest, political demonstrations, or other security challenges. Hong Kong authorities encourage residents in Iran to remain vigilant, monitor official announcements, and maintain communication with the Chinese embassy for up-to-date guidance.

Authorities emphasize that travelers in both countries must prioritize personal safety and remain informed about changes in the security situation. Residents are advised to follow instructions from local authorities and stay in contact with the Chinese embassies, which provide timely updates and essential safety information. Travelers should avoid risky areas, plan alternative routes, and maintain contingency plans to respond quickly to emergencies.

The government underscores the importance of proactive measures. Hong Kong residents should prepare travel plans that minimize exposure to high-risk areas, avoid crowded or politically sensitive locations, and limit movement to essential activities only. Staying alert to local news, security announcements, and embassy advisories remains critical to ensuring safe travel.

Ongoing conflicts, political tensions, and unstable conditions in Israel, Iran, Lebanon, and Syria pose serious security risks, prompting Hong Kong travelers to reconsider plans and follow real-time embassy updates.

Overall, the red travel alert for Israel and Iran signals that significant threats persist despite the recent adjustment from black. Residents are strongly encouraged to postpone non-essential travel and take precautions if they must visit these countries. By following official guidance, maintaining communication channels, and remaining aware of potential dangers, travelers can significantly reduce their exposure to risks while abroad.