The Foreign Ministry has raised the travel warning for Iran to red and Israel to orange as tensions between the two countries continue to escalate. It is also currently recommending that citizens avoid travel to the region, and offering assistance to Taiwanese already in the conflict zones to leave.
An orange travel warning, as issued to Israel, means to avoid travel to the destination, while Iran's red warning indicates people should leave the country as soon as possible. Though airspace around both countries is closed due to rising tensions, the Foreign Ministry's help is available to those who wish to leave by land route. Taiwan's Tel Aviv Representative Office has already assisted 14 Taiwanese via bus to the office in Jordan, which will provide subsequent aid to return to Taiwan.
The Foreign Ministry is also keeping in close contact with the nine Taiwanese nationals currently in Iran, saying that Taiwan's Tehran Trade Center and Taiwan's Dubai Office are available to offer assistance on the ground.
The Foreign Ministry has called on all Taiwanese to avoid travel to either country in the near future as tensions in the Middle East continue. It further urged those still engaged in business or travel in the region to be vigilant, prioritize their own safety, and take the initiative to contact relevant Taiwanese Missions abroad. The Taiwan-Israel working holiday program has also been suspended.
As for the ministry itself, spokesperson Hsiao Kuang-wei (小光伟) says they are closely monitoring the Middle East situation and staying up-to-date on the latest developments.