Middle East Conflict Causes Travel Disruptions and Insurance Concerns
Heightened geopolitical instability in the Middle East is causing significant travel disruptions and prompting insurers to reassess coverage terms. Following recent US military strikes on nuclear sites in Iran, the Australian government has elevated its travel advisory for the region, warning of potential rapid deterioration in local security.
Australian consular services in Iran are currently unavailable due to the closure of the embassy in Tehran. Airlines have responded by rerouting or suspending flights passing over Iran and surrounding areas, including Iraq, Syria, and Israel. These changes are affecting travel to destinations like Doha and Dubai, with downstream implications for travel insurance coverage and claim eligibility.
Guidance for Travellers Affected by Route Changes
Natalie Ball, managing director at CompareTravelInsurance.com.au, advised travellers experiencing changes to flight schedules to first consult directly with service providers before turning to insurers. “Impacted travellers should first seek compensation through their travel providers. If they are not eligible for compensation, their next step should be to contact their travel insurer, confirming exactly what’s covered under their policy, especially where government advisories and known events are concerned,” she said.
Insurance Validity in ‘Do Not Travel’ Zones
Ball highlighted that insurance coverage may not apply in destinations where Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has issued the highest-level travel warnings. “Travelling to a destination with a ‘Do Not Travel’ warning could invalidate your travel insurance policy. As well, those who travel against such warnings may face limited or no consular assistance during emergencies, so consider these factors carefully when making any travel decisions,” she warned.
The recent eruption of Mt Lewotobi in Indonesia serves as a reminder of the need to plan for natural hazards. Insurance purchased before the June 18 eruption may cover related disruptions. “Unexpected weather events and volcanic eruptions are generally covered by travel insurance, provided you purchased your policy prior to the event,” Ball explained.
Measles Resurgence Spurs Preventative Measures
In a separate development, Australian travellers are being encouraged to review their immunisation history amid a rise in global measles cases. Overseas transmission has been linked to local outbreaks, with 54 cases reported nationally in 2025 – nearly equalling the full-year total for 2024. Natasha Sullivan, marketing manager at Zoom Travel Insurance, emphasised the importance of immunisation for international travel. “With the sudden outbreak of measles, travellers should ensure they are sufficiently vaccinated, particularly when travelling in parts of the world experiencing high transmission of measles.”
Sullivan noted that most travel insurance policies will provide cover for unexpected illnesses like measles. However, once an outbreak is classified as an epidemic or widely known, new policies may not include protection for that condition. Australians are becoming increasingly risk-aware, with over 80% of those intending to travel abroad in 2025 planning to take out insurance, according to recent survey data from Allianz Partners.
Key Considerations for Travellers
- Check travel advisories regularly as they can change frequently
- Understand what is covered under your travel insurance policy
- Consider the implications of travelling against government warnings
- Ensure you are sufficiently vaccinated before international travel
By staying informed and taking appropriate precautions, travellers can better navigate the challenges posed by global conflicts and health risks.
