Wisma Putra said Malaysians in the affected countries are “strongly urged to immediately register and update their contact details with the nearest Malaysian mission or via e-Konsular to facilitate the coordination of evacuation arrangements”.

“The ministry expresses serious concern over the heightened escalation of the conflict in the Middle East and advises Malaysians to defer travel to countries affected by the conflict until further notice, including those intending to perform umrah.

“Malaysians currently in the affected countries are urged to remain vigilant, avoid areas of military activity and public gatherings, and strictly adhere to instructions issued by local authorities,” it said.

Earlier, Bloomberg reported that the number of cancelled flights to Middle East hubs has surpassed 23,000 since fighting began.

Emirates extended its suspension of flights to Dubai through the end of Saturday, a full week since the US and Israel launched their joint attack, while Qatar Airways extended its service halts into Friday.

Thousands of passengers have been stranded in the Gulf region, forcing many to take circuitous, expensive routes to reach functioning airports in Saudi Arabia and Oman.