UK warns against Mideast trips
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Baghdad streets are not safe, the UK Foreign Office warns
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LONDON, England (CNN) -- British nationals have been advised to leave Iraq "immediately" and warned against "non-essential travel" to Israel, the West Bank, Gaza and Kuwait.
The British Foreign Office advisories were issued because of the growing tensions in the region and the risk of terrorism.
"If you are considering going to Iraq you should be aware that British nationals were used as hostages during the 1990-1 crisis by the Iraqi regime, being held where their safety was at most risk.
"You should also be aware that there is no British diplomatic presence in Iraq to offer consular assistance," according to the advisory.
"We advise you against making any non-essential travel including holiday travel to Kuwait; and, if already in Kuwait, to leave unless you consider that your presence there is essential," the advisory said.
CNN's Martin Savidge said the Kuwait advice was given not necessarily because of any fears that Iraq mnay strike the country should war break out but because of the possibility of retaliation from individuals or terrorist groups.
Britain has ordered the departure of dependents of staff in the Kuwait embassy and authorised the departure of staff members who want to leave.
It has also authorised the departure of the dependents of staff and of non-essential staff in Israel.
"If already in Israel, you should maintain a high level of vigilance and consider whether your presence and that of your dependents is essential. This advice also applies to East Jerusalem.
"You should consider your arrangements for leaving, and in particular check that your travel documents are in order. You should register at the embassy or the consulate general," the advisory said.
"In the case of the West Bank and Gaza, we would advise you to leave now while exit routes remain open."
