New Zealand and Slovakia have temporarily closed their embassies in Tehran, citing a sharp decline in security conditions and growing concerns over potential escalation in Iran. Both countries confirmed that their diplomats have been safely evacuated as a precautionary measure.
New Zealand’s Foreign Ministry said its diplomatic staff departed Iran overnight using commercial flights. Embassy operations have now been relocated to Ankara, Turkey, ensuring continuity of essential diplomatic functions while keeping personnel out of harm’s way.
Slovakia echoed similar concerns. Foreign Minister Juraj Blanár stated that the decision followed a “significant” deterioration in the security situation, alongside what he described as a real risk of military escalation. He confirmed that all Slovak embassy staff are safe and no longer in danger.
In addition to the closures, New Zealand has issued a strong advisory against all travel to Iran. Citizens currently in the country have been urged to leave immediately, as the government warned that its ability to provide consular assistance is now extremely limited. Authorities also encouraged New Zealanders to stay in touch with family whenever possible, noting that severe communication disruptions are making contact increasingly difficult.
The move comes amid heightened tensions following Iran’s response to widespread anti-government protests. New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters said his government was “appalled” by Tehran’s violent crackdown, condemning the use of force by Iranian security services and the reported killing of protesters. He emphasized that Iranians have the fundamental right to peaceful protest, free expression, and access to information—rights he said are currently being suppressed.
New Zealand has conveyed its concerns directly to Iran’s embassy in Wellington and indicated it will continue to press the issue through diplomatic channels.
At the heart of these decisions are not just policies or protocols, but people—families separated by uncertainty, diplomats forced to leave behind years of work, and ordinary citizens trying to stay connected in a rapidly closing space. As embassies shut their doors, the message is clear: safety comes first, even when the cost is distance, disruption, and unanswered questions.
