The Foreign Ministry (MOFA) stated Monday, March 9, that 252 Taiwanese citizens were evacuated home by plane on Sunday amid the escalating tensions in the Middle East. To date, a total of 1,280 Taiwanese citizens in the area have been assisted. MOFA urged any remaining Taiwanese in the region to evacuate as soon as possible via commercial flights, as Iran’s attacks on neighboring countries continue. 

Just over a week after the United States and Israel launched a joint attack on Iran, the situation has only continued to escalate. On Monday, MOFA noted that Iran has continued missile and drone strikes on Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Kuwait.

The ministry added that open airspace and commercial flights are likely to change as the situation develops, and urged any Taiwanese in the area to leave for Taiwan as soon as possible via commercial flights. Those needing assistance are directed to contact the local representative office.  MOFA Spokesperson Hsiao Kuang-wei (蕭光偉) said, “Currently, our overseas representative offices in the region will continue to provide any necessary assistance to Taiwanese citizens.”

Since last Thursday, 42 Taiwanese stranded in Qatar have been successfully escorted to Saudi Arabia, where the representative office staff are employing all efforts to ensure they can safely return home. 

Those overseas in need should contact their nearest representative office for assistance. Families of overseas Taiwanese can also call the MOFA 24/7 toll-free emergency hotline at +886-800-085-095 for assistance.