Large protests and political rallies occur regularly across Iraq. These can quickly turn violent. Avoid large public gatherings. If you're caught in an affected area, stay indoors. Follow the advice of local authorities or your security provider (see 'Civil unrest and political tension'). Due to the current security environment, and as a precaution, Australian government officials posted in Iraq have been directed not to travel outside the greater Baghdad region. An increased threat of military and terrorist attacks against Israel and Israeli interests across the region and ongoing military action in the Occupied Palestinian Territories could lead to increased tensions in other locations in the Middle East. Demonstration and protest activity may occur, and localised security situations could deteriorate with little notice. Avoid all demonstrations and protests. This may also result in airspace closures, flight cancellations and flight diversions and other travel disruptions.