The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) is liaising with 39 registered Kiwis in Iran amid two weeks of deadly protests.
According to international reports, protests erupted in Tehran in late December, triggered by skyrocketing prices following the rial’s plunge against the US dollar late that month. The turmoil has swept nationwide, now featuring open anti-government chants defying Iran’s theocracy. Protests in Iran have killed over 500 people, with more than 10,600 arrested.
Information from Iran remains scarce due to a government blackout of internet and phone services.
Meanwhile, MFAT said it has reiterated SafeTravel advice to Kiwis registered in Iran.
“New Zealanders are advised to avoid all demonstrations, rallies, and large public gatherings, as they could turn violent with little warning.”
MFAT noted that in past conflicts, dual New Zealand-Iranian citizens assisted by their non-Iranian passport country have been barred from leaving.
“The New Zealand Embassy in Tehran is operating, but the ability of the New Zealand government to provide consular assistance is extremely limited,” it added.
“Any New Zealanders in the country should leave now.”
Foreign Minister Winston Peters voiced concern over reports of protesters being killed in Iran.
“Peaceful protest is a fundamental human right. New Zealand calls upon Iranian security forces to refrain from violence.”
He said SafeTravel has issued a “do not travel” advisory for Iran and that Kiwis should follow it.