site.btaForeign Ministry Issues Guidance for Bulgarians Amid Middle East Tensions

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through its embassies in the Middle East, continues to closely monitor the extremely dynamic situation and will inform interested Bulgarian citizens about options for leaving dangerous areas, the Foreign Ministry said here on Wednesday.

In connection with the recent escalation of tensions in the Middle East region, the ministry recommends that Bulgarian citizens located in affected countries who require assistance contact the Foreign Ministry via its communication channels.

At present, Iran’s airspace remains closed, making it impossible to leave the country by air at this stage. Evacuation is possible only via the country’s land borders.

The situation in Israel remains dynamic and continues to change, so authorities strongly advise compliance with recommendations from local authorities and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Currently, Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv and the airport in Haifa are fully operational. Restrictions on the number of incoming and outgoing flights, as well as on passengers and accompanying persons at the airports, have been lifted. Israeli airlines El Al, Israir, and Blue Bird have resumed flights to Bulgaria. Land border crossings and maritime routes remain available for those wishing to leave the country.

Israel has lifted most emergency restrictions for the civilian population, as the fragile truce with Iran appears to be holding. This comes hours after United States President Donald Trump criticized both sides for violating it, according to DPA.