Leave Iran Now, China Urges Citizens over Rising Tensions
China has advised its nationals in Iran to leave the country promptly, citing mounting external security risks as tensions rise between Tehran and the United States.
According to a statement from China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, citizens currently in Iran were urged to strengthen personal safety precautions and depart “as soon as possible.” The ministry also warned against non-essential travel to Iran at this time.
Chinese diplomatic missions in Iran and neighbouring countries have been directed to assist nationals seeking evacuation, whether through commercial air travel or land border crossings.
The advisory comes amid heightened rhetoric from Washington, where US officials have threatened possible military action if ongoing negotiations with Tehran collapse.
In a related development, the United States Embassy in Israel authorised the voluntary departure of non-essential personnel and their family members, citing security concerns.
Staff members wishing to leave were encouraged to do so while commercial flight options remain available.
Although the embassy’s notice did not specifically reference Iran, it coincides with what analysts describe as the largest American military buildup in the region in decades.
Reports by The New York Times indicated that the US Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, advised embassy staff via email to prioritise securing outbound tickets immediately if they intended to leave.
Meanwhile, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, voiced grave concern over the risk of further military escalation in the Middle East.
Addressing the United Nations Human Rights Council, Türk warned that any confrontation could have severe consequences for civilians across the region.
He also drew attention to developments inside Iran, noting renewed student protests at universities following a sweeping security crackdown last month. According to him, the domestic situation remains fragile.
Diplomatic efforts to ease tensions are ongoing. A third round of talks between US and Iranian officials was held in Geneva on Thursday under Omani mediation, aimed at preventing a potential military clash.
The negotiations reportedly included both indirect and direct exchanges, with Oman’s Foreign Minister, Badr Albusaidi, relaying messages between the delegations.
While no breakthrough has been announced, diplomatic sources say discussions remain focused on de-escalation and averting armed conflict in the region.
