This article provides ongoing updates on the Israel-Iran conflict, with situational analysis and traveller guidance. Latest update: 23 June 2025.
On 22 June 2025, the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Navy launched several strikes against key Iranian nuclear infrastructure, representing the U.S.’s first offensive action in the conflict. Damage assessments from the strikes are currently incomplete but are assessed to be severe.
Iran has previously warned that any escalation of the conflict or involvement of the U.S. would result in major consequences, including the targeting of U.S. bases in the region. Whilst not explicitly stated, this was previously assessed to also include the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic body of water through which 20 percent of the world’s oil supply travels and is under the direct influence and control of Iran.
Since the U.S. strikes, Iran has stated their intent to retaliate with an equal and proportionate response, citing international law, which provides for this option. The Iranian Parliament has also approved the closure of the Strait, which, at the time of writing, is still pending approval by Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
The strikes by the U.S. (and subsequent rhetorical response by Iran) represent a major escalation in the conflict and indicate a shift towards an escalated regional conflict.
Despite French-led European efforts to reduce tensions, the situation remains vulnerable to further increases in strikes and counter-strikes by all parties involved, as well as risks dragging in other regional parties either directly or indirectly.
Already events have indicated possible courses of action that will lead to major energy security disruption, as well as an increased probability of Iranian-backed proxy force responses throughout the wider region, such as Kataib Hezbollah who have warned that they will conduct attacks against U.S. infrastructure in Iraq, or Lebanese Hezbollah who have warned that they could re-initiate attacks against Israel.
The UK, France and Germany have all called on Iran to engage in negotiations for an agreement on their nuclear program and have urged Iran not to take further action which could destabilise the region.
Outlook & implications
It is almost certain that further escalation will result in significant impacts that will be felt both regionally and internationally in terms of fuel and energy security, transport availability and movement, as well as safety in third countries not directly involved in the conflict at present.
The closure of the Strait of Hormuz encapsulates this, having long been considered Iran’s most likely response in the event of direct confrontation with the U.S. It is probable that, should final approval be given to close the Strait, Iran will be able to hold the waterway relatively effectively, particularly with international shipping being unwilling to navigate the waters regardless of U.S. or other national presence.
Whilst the U.S. Navy may conduct freedom of navigation activities in the Strait, they will be particularly vulnerable to a motivated Iran’s targeting through both land-based weapons and small fast attack vessels and are therefore unlikely to be able to forcibly reopen or secure it in the short term.
Despite escalations, it appears possible that Israel intends to reduce strike activity against Iran, with recent rhetoric from Tel Aviv appearing to indicate that they are satisfied with the level of effect on the country; however, with Tehran appearing intent on conducting retaliatory strikes it is probable that Israel will remain on an escalated security footing through the short- to medium-term.
Both regional and international travel and movement will almost certainly be affected in the short- to medium-term and will possibly be impacted further should Iranian-backed proxy forces conduct attacks against either Israeli or U.S. interests in the region. This could include both military infrastructure and assets, as well as diplomatic and energy sector infrastructure in near-region countries, including both Iraq and Saudi Arabia, as well as further escalations in Israel.
Israel-Iran conflict overview
On 13 June 2025, the Israeli Defence Force launched a series of targeted strikes against Iranian nuclear and military facilities, personnel and leadership in a campaign named Operation Rising Lion. The intent was to disrupt Iranian nuclear development and Iranian command and control structures.
In response, Iran launched Operation True Promise III, carrying out massed bombardments of Israel using ballistic missiles and drones, targeting military and intelligence infrastructure.
As a result of the strikes between both countries, the airspace over Iran and Israel remains closed, although land borders are open. This has forced commercial airlines to cancel or divert flights at significant cost. The conflict has also created serious safety and security risks for personnel, with expats and travellers now effectively stranded in both countries and facing limited evacuation options.
Current advice to travellers
The following advice is general in nature only and does not account for the individual needs or circumstances of travellers. It is recommended that travellers at risk seek dedicated professional assistance, such as through their travel risk management provider, where required.
- Avoid all military and government infrastructure
- Be aware of your nearest shelter(s) and have an evacuation plan, including alternatives
- Account for special needs, such as mobility, and carry essential medications
- Follow the direction of local authorities, and continue to monitor alerts
- Register with your home country’s consular assistance
Evacuation support
World Travel Protection is continuously monitoring the situation while actively working with clients to provide comprehensive assistance and evacuation support in Israel. This includes travellers requiring assistance relocating to alternate regional locations with international airport connections.
We have secure transport and security personnel available on the ground at both sides of border crossing points, ready to mobilise within 24-48 hours upon client approval. However, due to high demand, asset availability is subject to confirmation.
For travellers whose insurance policy are affected by exclusions or whose location is impacted by sanctions, we also offer non-financial support and assistance.
Over the coming days and weeks, as airspace access gradually resumes, we can expect to see an increase in requests for support. However, the volatility of the situation has the potential to impact the wider region and globally.
