Government Supports Evacuation of Korean Nationals from Israel Amid Worsening Situation

Evacuation to Jordan via Land Route

The government is evacuating Koreans who were residing in Israel. Korean nationals in Israel had previously decided their whereabouts independently, such as leaving for Jordan on a chartered bus arranged by the Korean Association, but as the situation has deteriorated, the government has stepped in to support their evacuation.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the 19th, 26 Koreans and family members who were staying in Israel arrived safely in Jordan by land through transportation provided by the government.

Those staying in Israel arrived safely at the Israel-Jordan border checkpoint with staff from the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Israel, and are currently traveling from the Jordanian border to the capital, Amman. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs dispatched a rapid response team, headed by the Consular Safety Policy Team leader, to support the evacuation of Koreans in Israel. The response team, together with the local embassy in Jordan, is providing necessary consular assistance to evacuees, including accommodation and guidance for return flights.

The armed conflict between Israel and Iran—which began on the 13th when Israel attacked Iran's nuclear facilities—continues with reciprocal airstrikes and large-scale missile attacks involving fighter jets. Recently, Iranian missiles have repeatedly breached Israel's air defenses, further worsening the situation. Former U.S. President Donald Trump urged, via social media, 'Leave Tehran immediately', and demanded Iran's 'unconditional surrender', raising concerns about possible U.S. involvement in the Israel-Iran armed conflict.

On the 17th, the government raised the travel alert for all areas in Israel, except for regions such as Gaza Strip already under a 'no travel' warning, upgrading the advisory from 'travel restraint' to 'departure recommendation'.

Reporter Hyunil Lee hiuneal@hankyung.com