News live: Australian government evacuates families of diplomats as tensions rise in Middle East

Embassies in Tel Aviv and Beirut remain open but Dfat warns situation is ‘unpredictable’. Follow today’s news live

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Australia has directed the departure of all dependants of Australian officials posted in Israel and Lebanon, as a precautionary measure due to regional tensions.

The government has also offered voluntary departures to dependants of Australian officials posted in Jordan, Qatar and the UAE and continues to advise exercise a high degree of caution in these destinations.

The security situation in the Middle East is unpredictable. Regional tensions remain high and there continues to be a risk of military conflict.

The situation could deteriorate with no warning.