By Atoyebi Nike
The People’s Republic of China has issued urgent evacuation advisories for its citizens in both Iran and Israel, as hostilities between the two Middle Eastern powers continue to escalate dangerously.
In a public advisory posted online Tuesday, the Chinese Embassy in Iran urged all Chinese nationals still in the country to “leave as soon as possible.” The embassy said it had coordinated with Iranian authorities to assist in outbound travel arrangements.
“The Chinese Embassy in Iran has coordinated with the Iranian side to facilitate outbound travel and reminds Chinese citizens currently in Iran to leave as soon as possible,” the statement read.
A similar advisory was issued by China’s mission in Israel, encouraging citizens to exit via land borders, particularly toward Jordan, while warning that “civilian infrastructure has sustained heavy damage” and “the security situation is becoming more serious.”
The warnings come in the wake of a surprise Israeli aerial offensive across Iran last week, reportedly aimed at disrupting Tehran’s alleged nuclear ambitions—a claim Iran vehemently denies.
The conflict, which follows years of simmering tensions and proxy confrontations, has disrupted ongoing nuclear talks and heightened fears of a broader regional war.
Amid the escalation, U.S. President Donald Trump took to his Truth Social platform to urge residents of Tehran to “immediately evacuate,” a move that drew sharp criticism from Beijing.
“Fanning the flames, pouring oil, making threats and mounting pressure will not help de-escalate the situation,” said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun.
“We call on all relevant parties, especially those with influence over Israel, to take immediate steps to ease tensions and avoid further escalation.”
China has positioned itself as a neutral actor calling for restraint, urging all sides—including the U.S.—to work toward de-escalation and renewed diplomatic engagement.
