The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of China has warned the public to avoid traveling to Israel and Lebanon due to ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
In a press release, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that on July 27, rockets were launched at the Golan Heights in Israel, resulting in the deaths and injuries of several children. Subsequently, Fuad Shukr, a commander of Hezbollah, was assassinated in Beirut, Lebanon, on the evening of July 30, followed by the death of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran on July 31. These series of conflicts have escalated tensions in the region, raising concerns of potential expanded hostilities in the Middle East. The Ministry urged all parties involved to exercise restraint and resolve differences through communication and dialogue to prevent the escalation of the crisis.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated, “Our relevant missions in the Middle East have been instructed to closely monitor the developments of the conflicts and stand ready to assist our nationals when necessary. Due to the tense situation around Israel and the possibility of further escalation, we advise our citizens to stay informed of the developments in Israel and Lebanon and avoid traveling to these areas in the near future.”
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also advised, “Taiwanese nationals currently conducting business or travel activities in Israel and Lebanon are urged to heighten vigilance for their personal safety and to proactively contact our relevant missions. In case of emergencies in Israel, please call the emergency assistance hotline of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Tel Aviv at +972-544-275-204; for emergencies in Lebanon, please call the emergency assistance hotline of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Jordan at +962-79-5552605; or contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Emergency Assistance Hotline for Overseas Nationals at +886-800-085-095 for timely assistance.”
It is crucial for Taiwanese nationals to exercise caution and stay up to date with the rapidly evolving situation in the Middle East to ensure their safety and well-being.