Hongkongers urged to avoid travel to Iran, Israel despite risk downgrade
Authorities lower outbound travel alert for both countries from black to red, warning current risk levels remain ‘a significant threat’
Hong Kong has advised residents to avoid non-essential travel to Israel and Iran despite lowering the risk levels for visiting the two countries from black to red.
A government spokesman said in a statement on Monday that a red outbound travel alert still “signifies a significant threat”.
“The [Hong Kong] government advises Hong Kong residents who intend to visit Israel and Iran to adjust their travel plans and avoid non-essential travel,” the spokesman said.
“In view of the situation in Israel, Hong Kong residents should avoid all travel to Gaza and nearby areas, as well as areas along the border with Syria and Lebanon.
“As for Iran, Hong Kong residents should also avoid all travel to areas near the Isfahan, Qom, Markazi and Bushehr provinces,” the statement said.
Authorities also asked residents in the two countries to attend to “personal safety and pay attention to announcements made by local authorities and the Chinese embassies there”.