Israel and the United States launched joint attacks on Iran over the weekend, striking the capital of Tehran, and killing Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei – drastically escalating conflict in the region. Taiwan’s Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) convened a meeting Monday morning with relevant ministries to hear reports and review preparedness measures.

The meeting included members of the Finance, Foreign, and Economic ministries, among others. Foreign Ministry officials reported that representative office personnel in affected countries have activated emergency response measures and are maintaining close contact with Taiwanese in the region. The Economic Ministry Energy Administration reported international oil and gas prices are at risk of fluctuation as the conflict intensifies, although those changes have yet to be locally felt. 

Cho noted that the current situation is unpredictable, advising all ministries to continue close monitoring of the situation and respond appropriately. He added that the Foreign Ministry must do its utmost to protect the safety of affected personnel and assist overseas Taiwanese – especially stranded tourists and tour group members. He requested that the Foreign and Transportation ministries cooperate to assist with accommodation arrangements and departure transportation.

Regarding energy prices, the premier instructed the Economic Ministry to coordinate diversified supply sources, and that a price stabilization team meet with the vice premier to prepare contingencies. 

The Foreign Ministry stated that there are currently no plans for evacuation measures, as Iran is not launching widespread counterattacks on civilians or civilian infrastructure, but that these measures will be continually reviewed on a rolling basis. They strongly advised Taiwanese citizens residing overseas to maintain proactive and close contact with their representative offices, follow local government safety guidelines, and prioritize their personal safety.

On Sunday, March 1st, the premier noted that President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) had been briefed on February 28, and was aware of the situation and ongoing developments. He noted that the government is closely monitoring the situation and maintaining close contact with regional allies to meet the needs and ensure the safety of Taiwanese citizens in the region.