New Zealand has temporarily shut its Iran embassy, evacuating all diplomatic personnel due to a “deteriorating security situation,” according to officials.
A Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) spokesperson confirmed Friday that New Zealand has closed its Tehran embassy and relocated operations to Ankara, Türkiye.
“All New Zealand diplomatic staff have left Iran. They were able to leave safely on commercial flights overnight (NZT).”
Human rights organisations estimate the death toll from nationwide protests against the regime, which erupted last month, has now exceeded 2,500.
MFAT said its capacity to offer consular assistance to New Zealanders in Iran is now “extremely limited.”
The ongoing severe communication blackouts in Iran continue hindering contact with family and friends; the ministry is urging any New Zealanders who connect to reassure loved ones of their safety.
“New Zealanders in need of urgent consular assistance should contact the New Zealand Embassy in Ankara or MFAT’s 24/7 Consular Emergency Call Centre on +64 99 20 20 20. MFAT is in close contact with a range of other countries regarding the evolving security situation in Iran.”
Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters expressed that New Zealand was “appalled” at Iran’s intensifying violence and crackdowns.
“We condemn the brutal crackdown being carried out by Iran’s security forces, including the killing of protesters.”
“Iranians have the right to peaceful protest, freedom of expression, and access to information – and that right is currently being brutally repressed.”
“We continue to urge all New Zealanders in Iran to leave now if it is safe for them to do so,” Peters said.
The United Kingdom has also temporarily closed its Tehran embassy and evacuated all staff.