Bulgaria’s Foreign Ministry has issued crucial guidance for its citizens amidst escalating Middle East tensions, advising on evacuation options and safety protocols. This comes as the nation closed its embassy in Tehran and evacuated staff due to intensifying conflict, while simultaneously assuring its own security remains unthreatened.

Bulgaria’s Proactive Measures Amidst Regional Unrest

In response to the escalating conflict between Iran and Israel, Bulgaria has taken decisive steps to ensure the safety of its diplomatic personnel and provide guidance to its citizens abroad. Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov confirmed the closure of the Bulgarian embassy in Tehran and the evacuation of 12 diplomatic staff and their families to Azerbaijan. This move was prompted by an Israeli advisory for residents to evacuate a district in Tehran, in close proximity to the Bulgarian embassy.

Key Takeaways

Bulgaria closed its embassy in Tehran and evacuated staff due to intensifying Iran-Israel conflict.
The Foreign Ministry is actively monitoring the situation and providing guidance to Bulgarian citizens in affected areas.
Despite regional tensions, Bulgarian security services report no immediate threat to the country’s security.
Iran’s airspace remains closed, with land borders being the only current evacuation route.
Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv and Haifa Airport are fully operational, with restrictions lifted.

Travel and Evacuation Guidance for Bulgarian Citizens

The Foreign Ministry is closely monitoring the dynamic situation in the Middle East and is committed to informing Bulgarian citizens about safe departure options. For those in affected countries requiring assistance, the Ministry recommends contacting them via their official communication channels.

Iran: Airspace remains closed, making air travel impossible. Evacuation is currently only possible via land borders.
Israel: The situation is dynamic, and compliance with local authorities’ recommendations is strongly advised. Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv and Haifa Airport are fully operational, with restrictions on flights and passengers lifted. Israeli airlines El Al, Israir, and Blue Bird have resumed flights to Bulgaria. Land border crossings and maritime routes are also available.

Bulgaria’s Stance on Regional Security

Bulgarian security services have reported to Prime Minister Rossen Zhelyakov that there is no immediate threat to the country’s security from the situation in the Middle East. This assessment was made following reports of US military actions against nuclear sites in Iran. The government emphasizes that radiation levels in Bulgaria remain normal and are constantly monitored.

Bulgaria expresses deep concern over the growing tension and potential risks to international peace. The nation underscores the importance of preserving international legal order and arms control mechanisms, advocating for de-escalation and diplomatic solutions to prevent further deterioration of the situation. President Roumen Radev has called upon the permanent members of the UN Security Council to engage in constructive dialogue to avert a global catastrophe.

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