Indonesian Foreign Ministry pursues evacuation of Indonesian citizens still detained in Iran

Tangerang, Banten — The Indonesian Foreign Ministry (Kemlu) is continuing its evacuation efforts for Indonesian citizens (WNI) seeking to return home, as they remain stranded amidst escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East between the United States, Israel, and Iran.

“I am informing that any Indonesian citizens who wish to be repatriated quickly, particularly in Tehran, can proceed with the repatriation process by informing our representatives,” said Foreign Minister Sugiono whilst welcoming the arrival of 22 Indonesian citizens from Iran at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Tangerang, Banten, on Tuesday.

He revealed that the Foreign Ministry is currently coordinating with diplomatic mission representatives and state authorities to determine how many Indonesian citizens will be evacuated in the subsequent phase.

“We from the Foreign Ministry continue to conduct rather extensive coordination with our representatives in those countries,” he said.

He stated that the Indonesian Government has also established an inter-ministerial team to monitor developments in the security situation in the Middle East region.

“I believe I should mention that since the attacks launched by both the United States and Israel against Iran, as well as from Iran to neighbouring countries in the Gulf, we from the Foreign Ministry have continuously coordinated,” he noted.

For context, the Foreign Ministry has repatriated 22 Indonesian citizens from Tehran, Iran to the country through the first wave. The evacuation process will continue in the second wave with 36 Indonesian citizens currently remaining in Iran. They have registered to be repatriated to the country.

“This evening, 22 Indonesian citizens have returned in this first wave. Tomorrow, ten more will depart from Iran,” he said.