Indonesia Commences Citizen Evacuation from Iran Amidst heightened tensions

Jakarta – The Indonesian government has initiated the evacuation of its citizens from Iran, starting today, June 20, 2025, as regional tensions intensify [[2]]. The initial phase involves transporting 115 Indonesian nationals via four buses from Tehran to Baku, Azerbaijan.

Coordinating Minister for Politics and Security, Budi Gunawan, announced the commencement of the evacuation following a cross-ministerial and institutional coordination meeting focused on ensuring the safe return of approximately 386 Indonesian citizens currently residing in Iran. The effort involves strategic collaboration between the coordinating Ministry for Politics and Security,the Ministry of Foreign Affairs,the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI),the State Intelligence Agency (BIN),the ministry of Human Development and Culture (PMK),and the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Land Evacuation Plan Activated

Given the restrictions on air travel into iran, the evacuation is primarily being conducted via land routes. Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono stated that diplomatic notes have been issued, and an emergency communication channel has been established for Indonesian citizens in the affected region.Citizens are urged to remain calm, adhere to the guidance provided by Indonesian representatives, and promptly report any needs or requests for assistance.

Did You Know? The U.S.Department of State advises citizens to reconsider travel to Iran due to the risk of terrorism,arbitrary arrest,and detention. U.S. Department of State – Iran Travel Advisory

Minister sugiono had previously outlined the government’s evacuation strategy, emphasizing that land evacuation is the only viable option due to airspace limitations. He noted that the majority of the 380 Indonesian citizens in Iran reside in Tehran.

Embassy Preparedness and Regional Coordination

The Indonesian Embassy in Tehran has been instructed by the Ministry of foreign Affairs to assess the evacuation plan and implement contingency measures. The embassy’s preparedness level has been elevated from Alert 2 to Alert 1. Furthermore, communication has been established with neighboring countries to facilitate border crossings during the evacuation process [[2]].

Pro tip: Travelers should always register with their embassy or consulate in the country they are visiting to receive critically important safety updates and assistance in case of emergencies.

Indonesia’s largest Islamic organization,the Nahdlatul Ulama,has condemned recent attacks and called upon the United Nations to take swift and decisive action to de-escalate the conflict [[1]].

Air Force Readiness

The Indonesian Air Force is also on standby, with Hercules and Boeing aircraft prepared to assist in the evacuation of Indonesian citizens from both Iran and Israel, pending further orders [[3]]. First Marshal nyoman Suadnyana confirmed the Air Force’s readiness on Friday, June 20, 2025.

What measures should international bodies take to ensure the safety of civilians in conflict zones? How can technology be better leveraged to assist in emergency evacuations?

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