New Zealanders stranded by conflict in the Middle East are being urged to shelter in place as the Government prepares for potential civilian evacuation operations.
Foreign Minister Winston Peters said officials were exploring all options for assisting citizens in the “fast-moving, dangerous and complex” security environment.
With airspace closed and most commercial flights grounded, New Zealand is pre-deploying consular staff and two New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) C-130J aircraft to the region to be ready if conditions allow for evacuations.
Winston Peters said the Government’s primary focus was assisting people in the region to the extent possible.
“We cannot be sure when and how any civilian evacuation operations might be possible, but we want to be ready if and when conditions on the ground make them possible,” Peters said.
The Government is currently in discussions with commercial airlines regarding charter options and is working with international consular partners.
Defence Minister Judith Collins said the deployment of the C-130Js was a key part of New Zealand’s contingency plans.
“The New Zealand Defence Force and Foreign Affairs staff are playing a vital role in this situation, stepping up to assist New Zealanders in distress overseas,” Collins said.
The precise location for the deployment of the response team and aircraft has yet to be determined, with officials citing safety and operational security as factors in selecting a site.
Collins said there would be limits on public comments regarding the exact timing and location of the deployment for security reasons.
There are currently around 3000 New Zealanders registered as living in the Middle East. All citizens in the region are urged to register their details on SafeTravel.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade is currently running a 24/7 response operation, including teams on the ground in the region.
New Zealanders requiring urgent consular assistance are advised to contact the Emergency Consular Call Centre on +64 99 20 20 20.