Middle East

France asks its nationals to avoid going to Israel or Iran

In a context of exacerbated tensions between Israel and Iran, France increases the tone via two alerts simultaneously published by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This Friday, June 13, following Israeli strikes against Tehran overnight Friday, the French authorities recommend that their nationals avoid avoiding any trip, except imperative, to Israel, the Palestinian territories and Iran, reports BFMTV.

“Given the regional security situation, it remains not recommended for French nationals, except for imperative reasons, to go to Israel and to the Palestinian territories, including for tourist and family visits”said the official press release.

A similar alert is formulated for Iran, in a context where Téhéran’s reprisals (who has already sent dozens of drones in response) make fear a dangerous escalation. “Due to the degradation of the security situation and the increased risk of regional military climbing, it is reminded to French nationals that they must refrain from any displacement in Iran, whatever the reason”specifies France diplomacy.

Interrupted air transport and calls for vigilance

In response to the rise of tensions, several aerial links are suspended. Flights between France and Tehran, in particular via Imam Khomeini airport, are thus temporarily arrested. The French Minister of Transport, Philippe Tabarot, also announced the gradual suspension of links between Tel Aviv and France. Air France confirmed this Friday the suspension of its flights between Paris and Tel Aviv after the Israeli strikes on Iranian territory.

“With the closure of Israeli airspace, the company has suspended its flights to and from Tel Aviv until further notice”said an Air France spokesperson. Customers concerned can exchange their tickets at no cost.

For the French already present on site, Paris insists on the need to adopt cautious behavior: avoid any gathering, limit travel and remain informed via official channels. “The French people who would be in Israel and in the Palestinian territories are called to the greatest vigilance”hammers the ministry.