Japan urges citizens to avoid travel to Iran as protests intensify

The Japanese government has expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation in Iran amid ongoing nationwide protests that have left many people dead or injured.

In a statement, Japan’s Foreign Ministry said it opposes any use of force against peaceful demonstrators and called for an immediate end to the violence, Caliber.Az reports. 

“The Government of Japan strongly hopes for an early settlement of the situation,” the ministry said, adding that it is taking all necessary measures to ensure the safety of Japanese nationals in Iran.

Amid the unrest, Japan has raised its travel alert for the entire territory of Iran to level three, advising its citizens to refrain from traveling to the country. The ministry also urged Japanese nationals currently in Iran to avoid crowded places and to leave the country using commercial flights where possible.

Protests began in Iran in late December following a sharp devaluation of the national currency. The demonstrations have been met with heightened security measures, including the use of tear gas and pneumatic weapons.

According to reports, the protests have spread to more than 60 cities across 25 provinces. The largest demonstrations are taking place in Tehran, while the most violent clashes have been reported in western and southwestern regions, including the cities of Malekshahi, Kermanshah, and Lordegan.

By Sabina Mammadli