NZ Urges Citizens to Leave Iran, Israel as Conflict Escalates in Middle East

As tensions in the Middle East intensify, the New Zealand Government is making the safety of its citizens in the region its top diplomatic and humanitarian priority. Foreign Minister Winston Peters has issued a renewed plea for New Zealanders currently in Iran and Israel to leave if possible and to shelter in place if not.

“We do not want New Zealanders in harm’s way,” Peters said, stressing the gravity of the situation. “While we face very serious practical constraints of a conflict zone and closed airspace, we will continue to do all we can to help.”

The warning comes amid rapidly escalating regional tensions, which have rendered civilian travel and evacuation logistics increasingly difficult. Airspace closures and heightened military activity have limited commercial and diplomatic movement, prompting urgent contingency planning from governments across the globe.

'Do Not Travel' Advisory Justified by Current Crisis

New Zealand’s travel advisory has long warned against travel to Iran due to security risks. Peters said the current crisis validates that stance: “The New Zealand Government’s long-standing advice for New Zealanders has been ‘do not travel’ to Iran, and the events we’re facing there now are exactly why that advice has been in place.”

While no formal evacuation flights have yet been confirmed, the Government is actively exploring options for when conditions allow, including commercial and allied government-led departures.

“We know consular partners are considering evacuation flights once airspace opens again,” Peters added. “We are in close coordination with Australia and in discussions with them and others about their plans and how we can assist each other.”

Embassy in Tehran Temporarily Closed; Staff Evacuated

In a significant diplomatic development, New Zealand’s Embassy in Tehran has been temporarily closed, and the two remaining staff members and their families have been successfully evacuated by land to Azerbaijan.

“An opportunity arose overnight to get our Embassy staff out of Iran, as part of a convoy alongside government officials from other countries,” said Peters. “The Government has a duty of care to its staff posted overseas, so we did the responsible thing to get them out of harm’s way.”

Support for New Zealanders in Iran is now being coordinated through the New Zealand Embassy in Ankara, Türkiye, and a temporary consular team deployed to Azerbaijan.

A decision on whether the Tehran embassy will reopen or be permanently closed will be made in the future, depending on the situation on the ground.

Evacuation and Support Options Being Explored

Although air travel out of Iran and Israel is currently restricted, MFAT (Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade) is working closely with regional airlines to identify possible commercial evacuation routes once airspace reopens. Meanwhile, registered New Zealanders are being provided with overland exit options.

“We urge New Zealanders in Israel and Iran to leave if they can safely do so, and to shelter in place if they cannot,” Peters said. “If and when opportunities arise to assist the departure of other New Zealanders in Iran and Israel, we will pursue them with urgency.”

MFAT has issued tailored guidance to New Zealanders registered in affected regions, including information on border crossing points and safety protocols for overland travel. Those needing urgent help can reach the MFAT 24/7 Consular Emergency Call Centre at +64 9 920 20 20.

Commitment to Ongoing Support and Rapid Response

Minister Peters reaffirmed New Zealand’s commitment to act swiftly in any evolving situation. “The safety and wellbeing of New Zealanders overseas is paramount,” he said. “We will continue to adapt and respond quickly to ensure that no New Zealander is left unsupported in a conflict zone.”

As international tensions persist, the Government is urging New Zealanders to closely monitor the SafeTravel website, register their presence with MFAT, and remain in communication with officials to receive real-time updates.

The situation remains fluid, and further announcements regarding support, embassy operations, or coordinated evacuations are expected as more information becomes available.