UK bans electronic devices from Mideast

The United Kingdom has joined the United States in banning passengers on flights on some countries in the Middle East and Africa from carrying electronic devices such as laptops and tablets in the cabin.

According to the Guardian, the restrictions affect 14 airlines, six of which are based in the U.K.

"The additional security measures may cause some disruption for passengers and flights, and we understand the frustration that will cause, but our top priority will always be to maintain the safety of British nationals," the U.K. government said in a statement.

The new restrictions on direct flights to the U.K. include flights from Turkey, Lebanon, Jordan, Egypt, Tunisia and Saudi Arabia.

Some airports covered by the U.S. ban -- Abu Dhabi and Dubai (UAE), Doha (Qatar), Kuwait City and Casablanca (Morocco) -- are not affected by the restrictions imposed by U.K.

"We have been in close touch with the Americans to fully understand their position," the U.K. government said in a statement.

The Trump administration has ordered nine airlines flying from 10 airports in the Middle East and Africa to stop passengers from bringing most types of electronic devices into the cabin for U.S.-bound flights.