Daijiworld Media Network - Beijing

Beijing, Feb 27: China on Friday advised its citizens in Iran to evacuate “as soon as possible” and urged those in Israel to strengthen safety precautions, citing a significant rise in security risks in the Middle East.

In a social media statement, China’s foreign ministry advised nationals currently in Iran to enhance safety measures and leave the country at the earliest opportunity. It also cautioned citizens to avoid travelling to Iran for the time being due to the prevailing security situation.

The ministry said Chinese embassies and consulates in Iran and neighbouring countries would provide necessary assistance to citizens seeking to relocate through commercial flights or overland routes.

China’s embassy in Israel, meanwhile, asked nationals to remain highly vigilant, improve emergency preparedness and avoid unnecessary outings. Citizens were advised to familiarise themselves with nearby bomb shelters and evacuation routes to ensure personal and property safety, according to state broadcaster CCTV.

The advisory comes on the same day that the United States authorised the departure of non-emergency embassy staff from Israel amid escalating tensions with Iran and an expanded American military presence in the region.

The US is reinforcing its forces in the Middle East, with the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford expected to arrive off Israel’s coast. The developments follow Oman-mediated talks between Washington and Tehran aimed at averting conflict, though differences reportedly remain over key demands.