Arab News Japan

TOKYO: The Foreign Ministry in Tokyo has escalated the danger level in Iran to its highest, Level 4, and has issued an urgent advisory for all Japanese residents in Iran to leave the country immediately, regardless of their circumstances.

“Since June 13, Iran has been under attack from Israel, and the conflict has continued with both sides sustaining casualties. In light of this, the entire country of Iran has been placed under a level 4 danger warning, indicating an urgent need for evacuation. We strongly advise against any travel to Iran at this time,” the Travel Safety Department in the Ministry cautioned adding there is a possibility that the exchange of attacks between Iran and Israel will continue.
The Ministry also emphasized the importance of maintaining close communication with the Embassy of Japan in Iran, as they are best equipped to provide aid and guidance during this crisis.

The advisory covers the entire border of Iran with other countries, including Iraq. “In the border areas of Kermanshah and Ilam provinces with Iraq, clashes have occurred between Iranian security forces and the Kurdish separatist organization “Party of Free Life of Kurdistan” (PJAK), and there have been several reports of arrests of ISIL-related personnel.

Despite ongoing missile attacks from Iran targeting major Israeli cities like Tel Aviv and Haifa, the Foreign Ministry has decided to keep its travel advisory for Israel at level 3 (do not travel) rather than escalating it to level 4 (evacuate). The borders with Lebanon and the Palestinian Territories have been under a level 4 advisory.

The reasoning behind the Japanese Foreign Ministry’s decision regarding Israel is not entirely clear. Earlier this week, Japanese Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi emphasized that Japan values its friendship with Israel. Analysts suggest that Japan’s choice to maintain the travel advisory at level 3 reflects its diplomatic relationship with the Israelis.