The Australian government has closed its embassy in Tehran and evacuated its diplomats to Azerbaijan due to escalating tensions in the Middle East. The government is also urging Australians in Iran to leave the country by road if it is safe to do so.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong stated that the decision to evacuate officials and suspend embassy operations was based on the deteriorating security situation in Iran. She emphasized the government's responsibility to ensure the safety of its staff, referencing historical risks to foreign officials during times of unrest.
Australian diplomats, along with their families, spent nearly a day traveling by car to exit Iran. Some of these diplomats are expected to remain near the Iran-Azerbaijan border to assist in the evacuation of other Australians. The closure of the embassy will make it more difficult for Australians to leave, but the government is working on contingency plans for when Iranian airspace reopens.
The government is issuing urgent warnings to Australians in Iran, advising those who wish to leave to do so immediately if it is safe. Those unable or unwilling to leave are advised to shelter in place. Over 2,000 Australians have registered with the government to express their desire to leave Iran.
The travel advice suggests potential routes out of Iran by road to neighboring countries, but also warns of potential security risks. Australians are advised to carefully consider the risks and assess the safety of travel. They are also informed of visa requirements for crossing most borders.
A government official expressed concern that the evacuation of diplomats from Tehran should have happened sooner. Meanwhile, the US State Department directed non-essential personnel at its embassy in Iraq to leave the country. A separate government source defended the response, citing the need to manage competing priorities in a volatile environment.
The Australian government is also working to assist Australians in Israel. Efforts are underway to help Australians leave through land border crossings. The government is also preparing for potential evacuation flights once airspace reopens.
5 Comments
Habibi
This is what happens when countries isolate themselves. We need a more thoughtful approach!
Comandante
Protecting our diplomats and citizens is paramount. It’s wise to err on the side of caution.
Mariposa
Why didn’t they take action sooner? This makes it look like they didn’t care about the safety of the diplomats until it was too late.
Michelangelo
It's wise to advise Australians in Iran to leave while they still can. The government is doing their best under difficult conditions.
Donatello
The government’s actions show they are taking the risks seriously. We should trust their judgment in this crisis.