Foreign Office issues advisories about Polish airspace and Qatar attack

The UK Foreign Office has issued updated advice to travellers in the wake of Russian drones being shot down in Polish airspace overnight, and attacks in Qatar on Tuesday.

Poland’s armed forces say the country’s airspace was “repeatedly violated by drone-type objects” during Russia’s strikes on western Ukraine, according to reports.

“A military operation has ended after Polish and Nato aircraft were deployed,” said the BBC.

The UK FCDO issued a travel advisory update early on Wednesday, saying: “Poland’s airspace has been closed temporarily. There are no flights in or out of Poland. Follow official Polish government announcements and updates from airlines.”

The BBC later reported that airports, including the main international airport, Warsaw Chopin, have been reopened.

A statement on the airport’s website says: “The airspace over Warsaw Chopin Airport has been reopened. Due to the situation related to the restrictions and prior closure of the airspace, disruptions and delays are to be expected, which may last throughout the day.

 “Please check the airport’s website for the current flight status; detailed information is available directly from the airlines.”

The FCDO also updated its advice for Qatar on Tuesday evening, saying “On 9 September, explosions occurred in the Lusail area in Doha. The FCDO is in contact with the local authorities. Follow the advice of the local authorities.”

The Palestinian armed group Hamas has said five of its members were killed in an Israeli air strike in Qatar’s capital, reported the BBC.

Prime minister Sir Keir Starmer said Israel’s action represents a “flagrant violation of Qatar’s sovereignty and risks fuelling further escalation when the focus should be ending the devastating cycle of violence in the region”.

Elsewhere, the FCDO has also warned travellers about strikes in France and protests in Nepal.

Updating its France advice, the FCDO said: “Calls for strikes and demonstrations across France on Wednesday 10 September and Thursday 18 September could make disruption more likely. Monitor local news and check with your travel provider regarding potential delays.”

Regarding riots in Nepal, an FCDO spokesperson said: “The recent loss of life and violence in Nepal is appalling. The UK supports fundamental freedoms and respect for human rights, including the right to protest and peaceful assembly. We urge all sides to end the violence and find a peaceful way forward.

“British nationals in Nepal should follow travel advice, avoid protests, check local media for updates and follow direction of the local authorities. Our Embassy in Kathmandu remains open and British nationals in need of consular assistance can contact the Foreign Office 24/7.”