China on Friday advised its citizens in Iran to leave the country “as soon as possible” and urged those in Israel to strengthen security precautions, citing a sharp rise in risks across West Asia
China on Friday advised its citizens in Iran to leave the country “as soon as possible” and urged those in Israel to strengthen security precautions, citing a sharp rise in risks across the Middle East.
“Chinese nationals currently in Iran are advised to strengthen safety precautions and evacuate as soon as possible,” AFP quoted the foreign ministry as saying in a statement on social media.
Beijing also warned citizens to avoid travelling to Iran “in light of the current security situation”, adding that Chinese embassies and consulates in Iran and neighbouring countries would provide “necessary assistance” to those seeking to depart via commercial flights or overland routes.
In Israel, China’s embassy called on nationals to remain vigilant, enhance emergency preparedness and limit travel.
According to state broadcaster CCTV, citizens were advised to “familiarise themselves in advance with nearby bomb shelters and evacuation routes to ensure personal and property safety”.
The advisory came as the United States authorised the departure of non-emergency embassy staff from Israel and expanded its military presence in the region, including the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier.
The developments follow Oman-mediated nuclear talks between Washington and Tehran, seen as a last effort to prevent conflict.
While initial signs were cautiously optimistic, Iran later warned that the US must drop “excessive demands” for an agreement to be reached.
With inputs from agencies
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