Final Evacuation Phase: 13 Indonesian Citizens from Iran Arrive in the Homeland

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Thirteen Indonesian citizens (WNI) evacuated from Iran arrived in the homeland on 21 April, the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kemlu) announced on Thursday (30/4). “We have conducted evacuations in three stages, and the final group of 13 Indonesian citizens arrived in the homeland on 21 April,” said Director of WNI Protection at Kemlu RI, Heni Hamidah, during a media briefing in Jakarta. According to Heni, the evacuation process was carried out through coordination between Kemlu, Indonesian representations, airlines, and relevant parties, ensuring safe accommodation and return for the Indonesians. She also stated that as of 29 April, the situation in the Middle East region, particularly Gulf countries such as Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, is monitored as stable and conducive. There have been no reports of missile or drone attacks in recent days, while public activities and most airspace have begun to return to normal. However, airports in Manama, Bahrain, and Baghdad, Iraq, remain closed to flights. Nevertheless, Kemlu advises Indonesians to remain vigilant and maintain communication with the nearest Indonesian representations. “In emergency situations, Indonesians are urged to contact the nearest representation hotline and the central WNI protection hotline,” Heni said. She added that as of 29 April, there are no more stranded Indonesians, and 2,999 Indonesians have been facilitated for evacuation or independent repatriation to Indonesia. The conflict in the Middle East escalated after the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran on 28 February. That situation triggered regional tensions impacting the security and mobility of Indonesians in the area.