China’s embassy in Israel on Tuesday advised its citizens to leave the country “as soon as possible,” as hostilities between Israel and Iran intensify.
“The Chinese mission in Israel reminds Chinese nationals to leave the country as soon as possible via land border crossings, provided they can ensure their personal safety,” read a statement posted by the embassy on WeChat.
The embassy recommended that Chinese citizens head towards Jordan when departing.
Tensions between Israel and Iran have surged after Israel launched an unprovoked aerial assault on multiple targets across Iran last week. Israel claimed the strikes were aimed at preventing Tehran from developing nuclear weapons, a charge that Iran firmly denies.
The sudden outbreak of violence has raised fears of a broader regional conflict. US President Donald Trump has called on Iran to return to negotiations, after Israel’s attacks disrupted ongoing talks over Tehran’s nuclear programme.
Beijing’s embassy warned on Tuesday that the situation was “continuing to escalate,” noting that significant civilian infrastructure had been damaged and civilian casualties were mounting. “The security situation is becoming increasingly serious,” the statement added.
