New Zealand Urges Citizens in Iran to Leave as Protests Worsen

New Zealand has urged its citizens and diaspora in Iran to leave the country immediately, following a sharp escalation in nationwide anti-government protests. Authorities cited growing security risks and a deteriorating environment for foreigners as reasons for the urgent advisory.

The New Zealand embassy in Tehran has been temporarily closed, and all diplomatic staff have been safely evacuated. Embassy operations have been relocated to Ankara, Turkey, where officials will continue to manage diplomatic and consular matters remotely.

Foreign Minister Winston Peters condemned the violent crackdown on demonstrators by Iranian security forces, describing the actions as “brutal” and “unacceptable.” He emphasized that Iranians have the right to peaceful protest, freedom of expression, and access to information, all of which are currently being suppressed.

The government warned that its capacity to provide consular assistance inside Iran is “extremely limited” due to communication challenges and overall instability. Citizens remaining in the country are advised to maintain contact with family whenever possible and to avoid areas of unrest.

Reports indicate that security forces in Iran have responded to demonstrations with lethal force, raising fears of mass casualties among protestors. The unrest, which has been ongoing for months, has drawn international concern over human rights violations and the safety of foreign nationals.

New Zealand has formally conveyed its concerns to Iranian authorities, urging restraint and respect for international human rights obligations. Diplomatic channels in Wellington continue to monitor the situation closely and provide guidance to New Zealanders affected by the crisis.

The travel advisory now strongly discourages any travel to Iran, citing risks including civil unrest, arbitrary detentions, and limited access to reliable information. Citizens are encouraged to make immediate plans to depart if it is safe and feasible.

Global attention continues to focus on Iran as the protests persist, with several countries urging their citizens to leave and condemning the excessive use of force against peaceful demonstrators. New Zealand’s advisory is part of a coordinated effort to safeguard nationals abroad while signaling concern over ongoing human rights abuses.