TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Twenty-eight Taiwanese tour groups with 773 travelers have been affected by missile strikes across the Middle East, the Tourism Administration said Sunday.

Travel agencies have been asked to take appropriate measures, such as arranging alternative flights, to minimize disruptions to group tours, per CNA.

The administration said that if travelers booked Middle East or Europe tours organized by travel agencies and flights were canceled due to the closure of Middle Eastern airspace caused by the conflict, this would be considered a circumstance not attributable to either party. Under Article 14 of the Standard Form Contract for Overseas Travel, travelers who cancel their trips are entitled to a refund of the remaining balance after the agency deducts administrative fees and necessary expenses already paid, CNA reported. Travelers may also negotiate with agencies to postpone or switch tours.

The Tourism Administration added that if travelers are stranded abroad due to flight cancellations during their trip, Article 20 of the contract stipulates that any additional expenses must be borne by the travel agency and may not be charged to travelers. Any reduced costs must be refunded to travelers. The administration said it will continue to monitor the situation and respond as necessary.

Lion Travel said it has established a task force to monitor developments in its group tours. As of March 1, one tour group was in Dubai, with all members reported safe. About 300 travelers on Europe and Asia-Africa routes have experienced varying degrees of disruption.

The company said it would adjust transit arrangements or itineraries based on the evolving situation and flight operations to ensure traveler safety and protect their rights.

Life Tour said that due to the closure of Middle Eastern airspace, some group travelers returning to Taiwan from Europe via Dubai had their flights canceled, affecting more than 100 people. Their return trips will be delayed, and accommodations in Europe have been arranged while subsequent flights are being adjusted, with priority given to traveler safety and rights. Additionally, tour groups originally scheduled to depart on Emirates flights have been canceled due to flight cancellations, and refunds will be processed in accordance with relevant regulations.

Best Tour said one group returning from Egypt has been affected, and the case is being handled.