The Chinese Embassy in Israel on Saturday reminded Chinese nationals in the country to closely monitor developments and changes in the situation, remain highly vigilant, familiarize themselves in advance with nearby shelters and evacuation routes, and keep communication channels open at all times. 

Israel and the US launched military strikes against Iran on Saturday morning. The Israeli government has issued a nationwide alert, announcing that beginning at 8:00 am on Saturday, all work and school activities will be suspended and all non-essential activities halted and Israeli airspace has been closed, according to a statement published on the WeChat account of the Chinese Embassy in Israel. 

The local security situation is extremely severe, the embassy said in the statement. 

The Chinese embassy said all necessary safety precautions must be strengthened and be fully prepared against various forms of attacks, including missiles, rockets, and drones. 

Upon hearing an air defense siren, immediately enter a designated shelter, the embassy said, reminding Chinese nationals not hesitate, linger, or take photos or videos, so as to avoid injury from falling debris or legal liability resulting from the disclosure of sensitive information.

The US and Israel launched strikes against Iran Saturday morning, according to Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz and two US officials, CNN reported. 

Israel declared a state of emergency across the country as the strikes were launched, in anticipation of Iranian retaliation, according to CNN.

As sirens echoed across cities and daily life came to an abrupt halt, the Chinese Embassy issued a stark and urgent appeal to its nationals in Israel: unless absolutely necessary, stay indoors.

The advisory urged Chinese nationals to steer clear of military facilities and other sensitive sites. Even routine spaces that once bustled with travelers – airports, ports, docks, railway stations, and light rail hubs – were now places to avoid, unless there was an essential need such as returning home or leaving the country.

The warning extended beyond obvious flashpoints. Government buildings and critical infrastructure, including power plants, refineries, and communications centers, were identified as high-risk areas amid the escalating tensions. The Chinese nationals were advised to keep their distance.

For those living near such institutions or in densely populated commercial centers, the message was even more pressing: consider relocating to safer accommodation as soon as possible.

The Chinese embassy and consulates in Iran on Saturday also reminded Chinese citizens in Iran to closely monitor changes in the security situation as the country faces significantly increase in external security risks recently.

Global Times