A couple stranded in Oman due to the war in Iran have said they are experiencing a lot of “stress and anxiety” because of their situation. 

In response to US and Israeli strikes, Tehran has fired missiles at America’s allies across the Middle East. 

Flights across the region have been grounded, with the small number of repatriation flights prioritising vulnerable citizens. 

On Newstalk Breakfast, John Keane and Eimear Kelly explained they had been on holiday together in Thailand and Vietnam. 

 They were due to transit through Doha, Qatar on their way back to Dublin but their flight was suddenly diverted. 

“Mid-flight, it was announced we'd be landing in 15 minutes in Muscat,” Ms Kelly said. 

“And it wasn't then, of course, until we landed that we understood why that was happening. 

“There was no kind of explanation while on the plane.” 

Once they landed in Oman, it took some time to get off the plane as the airport was at capacity. 

“There was just flight after flight landing,” she recalled. 

“So, we were stuck on the aircraft for about four hours and we couldn't get our phones working or Internet access.

“Everyone was trying to kind of share information and we've learned since from other passengers, they spent up to eight hours on the runway.” 

Consular assistance

Mr Kelly continued that while they contacted the Department of Foreign Affairs for advice on Saturday, they heard nothing until Sunday. 

Since then, a repatriation flight has been organised from Oman but there is only space for 280 people. 

“What we noticed is that it kind of focuses on the passengers or the people in the UAE, and they might be getting transported by bus to Oman,” Mr Kelly explained. 

“But it mentions nothing of us who are stuck in Oman and we're like we're 20 minutes from the airport - we're ready to go.” 

He added that while he understands why they are prioritising vulnerable passengers, they would also appreciate more regular communication from the Department of Foreign Affairs. 

“Having spoken with the consulate here in Oman and the Department of Foreign Affairs, they haven't really given us clear updates,” he said. 

“So, we're kind of just stuck in limbo, really.”

Ms Kelly said that while she does not feel like she is in immediate danger in Oman, she has still struggled with being stranded. 

“We do want to acknowledge that Oman is somewhat safer than some other countries in the Gulf region,” she said. 

“So, in terms of hearing missiles and that sort of activity, we've been relatively sheltered from that.

“But that doesn't take away from the stress and anxiety of the situation.”

She added that while their families have been “fantastic”, they worry about the impact on them. 

“I think at this stage, I want my Mum to be able to sleep again and we just want to get home,” she said. 

Main image: John Keane and Eimear Kelly in Vietnam. Image: Supplied.