Customer update – Middle East Conflict

Last updated: 5 March 2026

On February 28th 2026, the USA and Israel launched strategic missile attacks on political and military sites in Iran. This was met with retaliatory strikes by Iran at Israel and USA bases across the region, including Israel, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and the UAE.

As the situation in Iran and the surrounding region continues to escalate, we sincerely hope that you and your travelling companions are safe and unaffected by the ongoing unrest.

Most of our policies include a general exclusion relating to acts of war, which means cover may be limited in many circumstances.

We understand you may have questions about how these events impact the assistance and insurance cover we provide.

Please find below some details: 

If you are due to travel:

Several countries in the region have partially or fully closed their airspace, leading to significant disruption to international flights, including cancellations, diversions and extended delays.

Please check your flight status regularly and contact your airline or travel provider for updates and available options.

If your airline or tour operator cancels your trip due to the conflict, they should offer:

  • a full refund, or
  • the option to rebook or change your destination

If your provider does not offer suitable options, please review your policy wording and contact us using the contact details for the Claims department shown in your policy wording document.

If you choose to cancel your trip voluntarily, your travel insurance policy will not cover any costs.

Customers already abroad:

If you are already in affected areas, medical assistance remains available for unforeseen illness or accidents. Please refer to your policy documents for emergency contact details.

We recommend:

  • following all government and foreign office advice
  • staying informed via local news and official channels

If you need to shorten your trip, please contact your airline or travel provider. They may provide accommodation or support until you are able to travel.

If you cannot return home as planned due to the conflict, your travel insurance cover will be automatically extended at no extra cost until you are able to return.

For urgent assistance or questions about your policy, please contact the customer service team stated on your policy. 

 

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) is warning

“against all travel to Israel and Palestine”.

It is also warning

“against all but essential travel to Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and the UAE”.

The FCDO has told British nationals in the affected region to “immediately shelter in place”

and to “register their presence”.

Useful links

FCDO Foreign Travel Advice: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

Telephone (UK): +44 (0)20 7008 5000

To ‘Register your presence’ in the following countries, click on the appropriate link:

If you cannot access the online service, call the FCDO on +44 (0)20 7008 5000.