Today, 1 March, Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna held a telephone call with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, who provided an overview of the situation and the latest developments in the Middle East.
Tsahkna said that Estonia is closely monitoring developments in the region. “The events of the past 24 hours also directly affect European security, as a serious blow has been dealt to Iran’s ruling elite, which has played a significant role in supporting Russia in its war of aggression against Ukraine,” he said. “The death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei shows that Moscow is unable to support its allies, which constitutes considerable reputational damage for the Kremlin.”
The Foreign Minister stressed that the development of nuclear weapons by Iran must be ruled out and that international pressure through sanctions must continue until the Iranian regime ceases its attacks against its neighbours, ends repression against its own citizens and returns to diplomatic solutions.
“The death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei opens an opportunity for the Iranian people to enter a new era. It is a chance to free themselves from decades of repressive rule. Iran’s future must be decided by the Iranian people,” Tsahkna added.
As a result of the hostilities between Israel, the United States and Iran, several Middle Eastern countries have closed their airports and airspace, and we advise Estonian citizens not to travel there where possible. Further information will be provided at the earliest opportunity.
• Citizens in the region are asked to remain vigilant and to follow the instructions of the local authorities. There is a high missile threat throughout the region. If necessary, seek shelter immediately in the nearest secure building and stay away from windows, doors and open areas.
• We recommend that Estonian citizens leave Israel while this remains possible. Land border crossings with Egypt and Jordan are currently open.
• Public notices in the United Arab Emirates are available on the website of the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority: https://www.ncema.gov.ae
• All Estonian citizens in the Middle East region are asked to register their short-term stay on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (https://reisitargalt.vm.ee/registreeri-reis/) so that we can provide information if necessary.
Information will also be updated on an ongoing basis on the Foreign Ministry’s online consul site and on www.vm.ee.
If necessary, consular assistance is available around the clock on the emergency number +372 5301 9999.
Additional information
Communication Department
[email protected]
www.vm.ee | @MFAestonia