Singaporeans should avoid travel to Iran and Iraq due to 'volatile security situation': MFA
SINGAPORE — Singaporeans are strongly advised against travelling to, or remaining in, Iraq and Iran, in light of rising tensions in the Middle East, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA).
In a statement on Thursday (9 January), the ministry noted that the Republic has no diplomatic representation in either country, which constrains its ability to extend consular assistance in an emergency.
Singaporeans intending to travel to, or who are already in, the Middle East are also encouraged to eRegister with MFA, monitor the local news, heed the advice of the local authorities and take necessary precautions.
Those who need consular assistance can contact the 24-hour MFA Duty Office (24 hours) at +65 6379 8800 / 8855 or mfa_duty_officer@mfa.gov.sg
MFA added that Singapore is deeply concerned about the current situation. “There is an urgent need for all parties to exercise maximum restraint and de-escalate tensions and return to dialogue and diplomacy to resolve their differences.”
Tensions have been high in the region since a US airstrike near Baghdad airport last Friday killed Qassem Soleimani, the general who ran Iranian military operations in Iraq and Syria.
In retaliation, Iran launched missiles on U.S. military bases in Iraq on Tuesday evening.
However, US president Donald Trump has said that there were no American casualties suffered in the attack, and that Iran appeared to be “standing down”.
