site.btaUPDATED Flights Cancelled amid Israeli Attack on Iran

Airlines are cancelling flights to and from Israel on Friday amid escalating tensions in the Middle East following Israel's strikes against Iran.

Flights to and from Bulgarian airports in Sofia, Varna and Burgas have also been cancelled. 

Israeli airline El Al has cancelled all scheduled flights to and from Israel for June 13-14 due to security concerns and possible Iranian counterattacks, DPA reported.

Ben Gurion Airport near Tel Aviv also announced on its website that it has suspended all departing and arriving flights until further notice.

The airport in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, warned of expected disruptions, urging passengers to stay in touch with airlines, Reuters reported. Etihad Airways reported two cancelled flights between Abu Dhabi and Tel Aviv and delayed take-offs on four others. 

Emirates reported cancelled flights to and from Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon and Iran.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has called on Bulgarians in the Middle East, and in particular in Iraq, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, to keep themselves regularly informed about the situation and to follow the instructions of the local authorities.

Bulgarians are advised to avoid places that are very popular and where events involving large crowds are held, the ministry writes on its official website.

In connection with the developments in the security situation in recent hours and the declaration of a state of emergency, the Foreign Ministry calls on Bulgarian citizens in the State of Israel to remain calm, to strictly follow the instructions of the Israeli civil defence, to follow the latest information and to register with the consular service of the Bulgarian embassy in Tel Aviv, providing information about the duration of their stay and current contact details.

The Foreign Ministry urges Bulgarian citizens currently in the Islamic Republic of Iran to leave the country immediately.