Global travel impacts due to escalation in the Middle East

Escalation in the Middle East has caused widespread travel disruption, including airspace closures, delayed and cancelled flights.

Your travel plans may be affected, even if your destination is not in the Middle East. British nationals should:

• check for the latest updates from your airline or tour operator before travelling
• review your travel insurance policy for coverage before you travel
• monitor local and international media for the latest information and sign up for travel advice email alerts
• be mindful of your permitted length of stay in Laos, extend visa if necessary, and see visa extensions on Entry requirements page

Land borders and crossing with Thailand and Cambodia 

In July 2025, Thailand and Cambodia fought along parts of the border. The fighting included the use of rocket and artillery fire. Tensions remain withand reportsfighting oferupted theagain latestat roundvarious ofpoints gunfirealong onthe 23border September.in December. Land borders and crossings between Thailand and Cambodia continue to be  suspended. Some tourist destinations in border areas such as the Khao Phra Wihan/Preah Vihear temple, the Ta Kwai/Ta Krabey temple and the Ta Muen Thom/Tamone Thom temple are closed. 

There are also unexploded landmines in the border area. 

British nationals in Southern Laos travelling to Cambodia or ThailandThailand, , should carefully consider which land border crossings to use. British Nationalsnationals should also carefully consider any travel they have planned close to the Lao border adjoining the affected areas. 

See our travel advice for Thailand and Cambodia.