S’pore ‘deeply concerned’ with rising tensions in Middle East; MFA strongly advises citizens against travel to Iran, Iraq

SINGAPORE — The authorities in Singapore said that they are “deeply concerned” with the rising tensions in the Middle East and will be monitoring the situation closely.

In response to media queries, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) said on Wednesday (Jan 8) that there is an urgent need for all parties to “exercise maximum restraint and de-escalate tensions and return to dialogue and diplomacy to resolve their differences”.

MFA’s comments come after Iran launched missiles at US-led forces in Iraq earlier on Wednesday, in retaliation for the US drone strike on an Iranian commander — Major General Qasem Soleimani — whose killing last week stoked fears of a new Middle East war.

The attack on the US-led forces led to a spike in oil prices, and countries urging their citizens to leave.

SINGAPOREANS STRONGLY ADVISED AGAINST TRAVEL TO IRAQ AND IRAN

In its statement on Wednesday, the MFA said that in view of the volatile security situation — particularly in Iraq and Iran — Singaporeans are strongly advised against travelling to or remaining in these two countries.

The ministry added that Singapore has no diplomatic representation in Iraq and Iran, which constrains its ability to extend consular assistance in an emergency.

“Singaporeans intending to travel to or who are already in the Middle East region are also encouraged to eRegister with us, monitor the local news, heed the advice of the local authorities and take the necessary precautions,” said the MFA.

It added that those who require consular assistance can contact the MFA Duty Office at +65 6379 8800 / 8855 or via email at mfa_duty_officer [at] mfa.gov.sg.