As tensions between Iran and Israel escalate into open military confrontation, Thailand has issued an urgent evacuation advisory for all Thai nationals residing in Tehran, the Iranian capital. The directive, released by the Royal Thai Embassy in Tehran, urges citizens to leave the city immediately and relocate to safer areas such as Amol, northeast of Tehran, or return to Thailand as soon as possible.
The embassy’s warning comes in response to a significant deterioration in regional security following a sharp rise in missile exchanges between the two rival nations. Thai authorities have confirmed that they are now implementing emergency repatriation plans for Thai citizens in both Iran and Israel, underscoring the seriousness of the current geopolitical crisis.
Embassy Temporarily Closes Visa Section, Emergency Hotline Remains Active
The Thai Embassy in Tehran announced the temporary closure of its visa services as of June 16, citing safety concerns. While routine consular services are suspended, emergency assistance remains available 24/7. A dedicated hotline has been set up for Thai nationals requiring urgent help, and embassy staff remain on standby to coordinate evacuation and support services.
The embassy also advised that individuals with private vehicles should depart Tehran without delay and head toward less volatile regions. Those unable to leave independently are urged to contact embassy staff for assistance in coordinating safer exit routes or temporary accommodations in secure zones.
Iran-Israel Conflict Escalates: Civilian Deaths Mount
The evacuation order follows intensified Israeli airstrikes on Iranian military and infrastructure targets, which began late last week. According to Iran’s Ministry of Health, over 224 people have been killed, and more than 1,000 injured in what is being described as one of the most aggressive aerial bombardments in the region’s recent history.
Israel, in statements released by the Prime Minister’s Office, has cited national security concerns and allegations regarding Iran’s nuclear ambitions as the basis for the strikes. Iran, which denies any intention to develop nuclear weapons, has responded with retaliatory missile strikes on multiple sites in Israel, reportedly resulting in 24 Israeli fatalities and widespread structural damage.
The violence has escalated into a dangerous tit-for-tat exchange, with diplomatic efforts for de-escalation showing limited progress. The situation has prompted multiple countries to issue travel warnings and initiate citizen evacuation procedures.
Approximately 40,000 Thai Citizens in Israel, 300 in Iran
Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs reports that there are currently around 300 Thai nationals residing in Iran, many of whom are students, professionals, or accompanying relatives. In contrast, nearly 40,000 Thai workers are employed in Israel, primarily in the agricultural sector under a bilateral labor cooperation agreement.
In anticipation of further escalation, the Royal Thai Air Force and Navy have been placed on high alert, ready to deploy aircraft or vessels for repatriation missions if commercial flights become unavailable. The government is closely coordinating with regional partners to establish safe evacuation corridors and facilitate swift movement out of conflict zones.
Thai Government Prioritizes Safety of Overseas Nationals
Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara, stated in a press conference that the government is “fully committed to the safety of all Thai nationals abroad.” He confirmed that real-time monitoring of the situation is ongoing and that updates will be delivered regularly through official embassy and ministry channels.
The Thai government is also collaborating with international allies, including ASEAN partners and the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA), to assess regional risks and identify contingency options.
Guidelines for Thai Nationals in Iran
In its official advisory, the Thai Embassy has recommended the following for nationals currently in Iran:
- Avoid public places, large gatherings, and demonstrations
- Relocate to safer cities if possible, especially areas with reduced strategic value
- Maintain direct contact with the embassy and register with Thailand’s online consular portal
- Keep communication devices charged and essential documents on hand
- Prepare an emergency travel bag with food, water, medicine, and identification
Embassy representatives are working closely with Thai community leaders and organizations in Tehran to provide up-to-date briefings and logistical support to those planning to leave the country.
Impact on Tourism and International Mobility
While Iran is not a major outbound destination for Thai tourists, the heightened conflict has implications for airspace closures and regional aviation safety. Airlines operating between Southeast Asia and the Middle East have begun rerouting flights to avoid Iranian and Israeli airspace, which may result in longer travel times and scheduling disruptions across the region.
As of June 18, several carriers have suspended flights to Tehran and Tel Aviv, and civil aviation authorities have issued Notice to Air Missions (NOTAMs) warning airlines of missile risks and navigation disruptions in affected air corridors.
Conclusion: Thailand Responds Proactively to Regional Crisis
The Royal Thai Embassy’s evacuation advisory from Tehran highlights the intensifying danger posed by the Israel-Iran conflict. With the lives of Thai citizens potentially at risk, the government has acted swiftly to offer guidance, close non-essential services, and prepare for full-scale repatriation.
As the situation remains fluid, travelers are urged to avoid the region entirely, while those already present should follow embassy instructions and prioritize their safety. The incident underscores the importance of responsive diplomacy, crisis preparedness, and the need for international coordination in conflict-affected areas.
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