Jamaicans urged to remain calm, vigilant as Middle East conflict escalates

 

 

The government says it continues to monitor with concern the rapidly evolving security situation in the Middle East, which has further deteriorated in recent days.

 

Foreign Minister Kamina Johnson Smith says the government is hoping for an immediate cessation of hostilities and is urging calm and restraint for the protection of civilian life.

 

In an updated advisory shared at Wednesday's post Cabinet media briefing, Mrs. Johnson Smith reiterated that all travel to region should be avoided. 

 

"Nationals already in the Middle East are encouraged to exercise extreme caution and to follow instructions from official sources. It is noted that commercial air services across parts of the region have been disrupted with cancellations and periodic airspace restrictions affecting several routes. However, some commercial flights continue to operate from certain locations and Jamaica nationals who wish to depart should remain vigilant, should monitor these flights and should consider available options once it is safe to do so," she advised.

 

Meanwhile, Mrs. Johnson Smith said Jamaicans in the Middle East have been making contact through the country's various diplomatic, consular missions and the ministry to provide updates on their wellbeing.

 

Additionally, a virtual town hall is to be hosted on Wednesday by Jamaica's High Commissioner to India, who is accredited to Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, to engage with Jamaicans still in the region. 

 

"The town hall today will be focused on sharing information, sharing experiences on the ground, reiterating the messages of being sheltering in place, staying away from windows, ensuring that you follow local authorities,

you identify the closest shelter in the event that it becomes necessary and local authorities guide you to move to such shelters, again to monitor the flight availabilities as well as to ensure that as best as possible you have basic supplies of food and water," said the Foreign Minister.