The escalating security crisis has prompted an urgent evacuation of foreign nationals, challenging many due to significant travel disruptions in the region. Some governments have turned to Iran’s land borders to facilitate their citizens’ exit, while others advise staying safe until formal evacuation plans are established.
Iran borders several countries, including Azerbaijan, Armenia, Afghanistan, Iraq, Pakistan, Turkey, and Turkmenistan. Italy has successfully evacuated its citizens via convoys to Azerbaijan and Turkey, while Poland has managed to transport some diplomatic staff out of Tehran through Baku.
Russia has also been proactive, with its Embassy in Tehran working continuously to aid its nationals in leaving Iran via checkpoints on the Azerbaijan border. Russian officials report that many have successfully crossed, including family members of expatriates and talent such as members of the Tchaikovsky Symphony Orchestra. Moscow had previously prompted its citizens to leave Iran and Israel via commercial methods, with hundreds already having used the Astara border crossing into Azerbaijan.
Many nationals from various countries, including Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Portugal, and the Philippines, have utilised the Astara crossing as well. Meanwhile, Pakistan has initiated voluntary repatriation efforts for its citizens by bus, given the prohibition against Pakistani passport holders travelling to Israel.
China has activated its emergency consular services to assist nationals seeking to depart from Iran and Israel, while Cyprus has received requests from Portugal and Slovakia to help repatriate their citizens. Cyprus has established itself as a transfer point for evacuees since the onset of hostilities in October.
Turkmenistan is providing a haven for foreign diplomats and their families fleeing Iran, offering food and accommodation. Additionally, Albania has expressed gratitude to Greece and Bulgaria for their assistance with Albanian nationals in Israel, who are currently in Egypt awaiting their return home.
Taiwan has aided its citizens in Israel, arranging transportation to Jordan through its representative office. This support extends to facilitating their further return home.
In response to the unfolding situation, various foreign ministries are issuing safety guidance. The French government has warned its citizens to remain vigilant and stay near shelters, while the Thai Embassy has set up temporary accommodation in Iran and advises its nationals to leave Tehran promptly. The UK has temporarily reassigned family members of diplomatic staff from Israel and continues to advise against all travel to the region, emphasising the limited support available in Iran for British nationals.
As tensions remain high, foreign governments are coordinating efforts to ensure the safety and evacuation of their citizens from the increasingly unstable region.