UK CHARTERS OMAN FLIGHTS FOR BRITONS – First government flight leaves Oman as Iran strikes disrupt region
The UK government has scheduled its first evacuation flight from Muscat, Oman, as regional tensions escalate in the ongoing Iran–US-Israel conflict.
The Foreign Office says the repatriation flight will depart Wednesday evening, prioritising vulnerable British nationals registered with officials.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper told MPs efforts are under way to boost capacity out of Oman, working with airlines after widespread airspace closures in the Gulf have stranded thousands of travellers.
Around 130,000 Britons have registered for assistance, with many calling for help amid limited commercial services.
British Airways continues to operate additional flights from Muscat, while routes from key hubs including Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi remain suspended due to security threats.
The evacuation comes as the war with Iran rolls into its fifth day, marked by ongoing strikes and heightened risk across the region.
Meanwhile, the family of British couple Craig Foreman and Lindsay Foreman, jailed in Tehran, say conditions in Evin Prison are worsening as explosions and conflict surround the facility, raising fears for their safety.
Downing Street says it continues to coordinate with regional partners to secure further safe departures and support officials working on the ground.
