Arab News Japan

TOKYO: Japan’s Foreign Ministry lifted its Level 1 travel advisory for the United Arab Emirates, citing a recent easing of tensions in the Middle East following a brief period of heightened security concerns.

Japan MOFA’s advisory, which urged Japanese nationals to “take extensive caution,” was issued last month after the US and Israel conducted strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities in June.

In response, Iran vowed to protect its sovereignty and hinted at possible retaliation against US military assets across the region.

At the time, the Ministry raised the danger level for the UAE, Oman and Qatar from Level 0 to Level 1, in which Level 4 indicates a call for immediate evacuation.

The advisory warned that the regional situation could deteriorate rapidly and highlighted the possibility of further conflict and terrorism, particularly near US military facilities.

Japanese citizens were urged to remain vigilant, stay informed and be aware that even lone-wolf attacks in public areas such as shopping malls, restaurants or transit hubs could occur.

The warning also stressed that Japanese nationals have been victims of terror attacks in countries as diverse as Tunisia, Belgium, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, reminding travelers that “terrorism can occur anywhere and Japanese people can also be targets.”

However, following a limited and pre-notified Iranian missile strike on a US military base in Qatar, and a ceasefire agreement announced between Iran and Israel on June 24, no further hostilities have been reported.

The Foreign Ministry noted that Iran had deliberately targeted only remote, non-civilian areas and had signaled a clear intent to avoid broader escalation.

Japanese nationals in the region are still encouraged to monitor local news, avoid areas near military installations, and take necessary safety precautions.