WSU Restricts Middle East Travel for Campus Community

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Washington State University has implemented new restrictions on university-related travel to multiple countries in the Middle East and surrounding region, citing safety and security concerns tied to ongoing conflict. The restriction applies to all faculty, staff, volunteers, and students traveling internationally for university business.

Why it matters

The travel restrictions reflect heightened concerns about the safety of WSU community members in certain Middle Eastern countries facing political instability and security threats. The policy aims to protect students, staff, and faculty while balancing the need for international academic and research collaboration.

The details

Under the new policy, travel tied to Washington State University activities is prohibited to countries listed under Level 3 or Level 4 travel advisories from the U.S. Department of State. The affected locations include Iran, Israel, the West Bank, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Georgia, Iraq, Kuwait, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Bahrain, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia. University officials said the restriction will remain in place until the Risk Management Executive Committee determines conditions have changed enough to allow travel again.

• The new travel restrictions were announced on March 12, 2026.

What’s next

Members of the university community who believe travel to one of the restricted areas is necessary may request an exemption. Requests must be submitted in writing at least 60 days before planned travel and will be reviewed by the committee or a related subcommittee, typically within two weeks of submission.