Navigating Evacuations: Australia and New Zealand Respond to Middle East Conflict
Australia and New Zealand face challenges evacuating citizens from conflict zones in Israel and Iran due to closed airspace. Australia evacuated a few from Israel, while advising caution in Iran. New Zealand closed its embassy in Tehran but plans future evacuations.
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Australia has initiated the evacuation of some citizens from Israel amidst escalating conflict, but the process is hindered by restricted airspace. Meanwhile, New Zealand has temporarily closed its embassy in Tehran, advising citizens to seek safe routes out of the region.
The Australian government successfully evacuated a small group via a land crossing, with Foreign Minister Penny Wong noting that current airspace closures present significant logistical challenges. Over 1,500 Australians in Iran and 1,200 in Israel have registered for government assistance.
New Zealand's Foreign Minister Winston Peters highlighted the severe practical constraints in aiding citizens' evacuation. The New Zealand government evacuated its Tehran embassy staff to Azerbaijan by land, and is coordinating with Australia regarding potential air evacuations when circumstances permit.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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