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 liveGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastAustralia 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. Continue reading...