Why Are 150 South Koreans and Their Families Evacuating from Iran and Israel?
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Synopsis
In the midst of escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, 150 South Koreans and their families have evacuated. This article explores the government's efforts in ensuring their safety and the international support received during this crisis. Discover how the situation unfolds and the implications for those affected.
Key Takeaways
- 150 South Koreans have evacuated from Iran and Israel due to escalating conflict.
- The South Korean government provided vital transportation and consular support.
- Evacuation destinations include Turkmenistan, Jordan, and Egypt.
- Travel advisories for Israel and Iran have been raised to 'Level 3.'
- International cooperation has played a key role in ensuring safety.
Seoul, June 24 (NationPress) In light of the intensifying armed conflict between Iran and Israel, 150 South Korean citizens along with their family members have successfully evacuated from both nations, as reported by Seoul's foreign ministry on Tuesday.
The South Korean government has facilitated this evacuation by providing essential support, such as transportation and consular aid, enabling 56 individuals to transfer from Iran to Turkmenistan and 26 individuals to Jordan, according to ministry spokesperson Lee Jae-woong during a press briefing.
Additionally, 68 South Koreans and their families have safely departed from Israel and are currently seeking refuge in Egypt through two separate operations, with assistance from the Korean communities in both regions, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
"We wish to express our deep appreciation to the governments of Turkmenistan, Jordan, and Egypt for their invaluable support. We aim to foster a spirit of friendship and cooperation in the future," he stated.
On June 23, forty-five South Koreans, including one holding US nationality, managed to escape Israel and reached Egypt safely amidst the growing tensions caused by the conflict between these two Middle Eastern nations.
They utilized a land route through a border crossing on Monday afternoon (local time) via a government-chartered bus, heading towards Cairo, as detailed in a ministry press release.
This recent evacuation follows the successful escape of nearly 50 South Korean nationals and their Israeli family members from Tel Aviv to Jordan over the preceding week, supported by both the government and the Korean community in Israel.
Since the outbreak of hostilities on June 13, marked by Israel's extensive airstrikes on Iran, 56 South Koreans and their Iranian family members have also fled Tehran.
The South Korean government has extended transportation and assistance to facilitate the evacuees' passage through border checkpoints and to secure plane tickets for their return home or onward travel to a third nation.
In response to the escalating conflict, the foreign ministry has elevated the travel advisory for both Israel and Iran to "Level 3," the second-highest alert, strongly advising citizens to leave these countries.
Point of View
It is vital that we recognize the complexity of international conflicts. The South Korean government's proactive measures in securing the safety of their citizens reflect a strong commitment to national welfare. Our focus remains on the well-being of those affected, emphasizing the importance of diplomatic relations in times of crisis.
NationPress
24/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the evacuation of South Koreans from Iran and Israel?
The evacuation was prompted by the escalating armed conflict between Iran and Israel, which raised safety concerns for South Korean nationals in those regions.
How did the South Korean government assist in the evacuation?
The South Korean government provided transportation, consular assistance, and facilitated border crossings for the evacuees to reach safe locations.
Where have South Koreans evacuated to?
South Koreans have evacuated to Turkmenistan, Jordan, and Egypt, with assistance from local communities and governments.
What is the current travel advisory for Israel and Iran?
The South Korean foreign ministry has raised the travel alert for both Israel and Iran to 'Level 3,' strongly recommending citizens to leave these countries.
How many South Koreans have managed to evacuate so far?
A total of 150 South Koreans and their family members have successfully evacuated from Iran and Israel amid the ongoing conflict.
