Alison Hume MP offers support for those in Middle East

MP for Scarborough and Whitby, Alison Hume, is urging those who have family or loved ones currently abroad in the Middle East to contact her team for support.

It comes after British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and Emirates cancelled flights to the region, with all flights in and out of Dubai International and Al Maktoum International airport in Dubai now suspended.

Recommended reading:

It follows news that Iran, which was struck by the United States and Israel yesterday (Saturday, February 28), launched retaliatory attacks on Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The government said it is reaching out to UK nationals in the region to help support them.

The Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, said in a statement: “I know the British people and communities across our country will be deeply concerned about what this means for security and stability and for the fate of innocent people across the region – which for so many of us includes friends and family members.

“Our forces are active and British planes are in the sky today as part of coordinated regional defensive operations to protect our people, our interests, and our allies – as Britain has done before, in line with international law.”

He added that the government had increased protections for British bases in the Middle East to the “highest level”.

Ms Hume offered advice to those wanting to get back home, adding: “Eighteen-thousand flights worldwide are currently affected.

“If you have British family or loved ones currently abroad in the Middle East and are concerned about them, please get in touch with me by emailing alison.hume.mp@parliament.uk or telephoning 01723 679333 and my team will provide support.

“For the most up-to-date information, residents should consult Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office travel advice for the following countries:

 • Bahrain: gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/bahrain

 • Kuwait: gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/kuwait

 • Qatar: gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/qatar

 • United Arab Emirates: gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/united-arab-emirates

“Please share this information with anyone who may find it helpful.”