Dynamic situation in the Middle East - The Ministry of Foreign Affairs proposes alternative routes for leaving Israel

In connection with the escalation of tension in the Middle East, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of Bulgaria encourages its citizens in the affected region to contact the consular services for assistance in leaving the dangerous zones. At the moment, the airspace of Iran and Israel is closed, which makes evacuation by air impossible.

The MFA informs that the only alternative routes for leaving Israel are the land borders. Bulgarian citizens can cross the borders with Armenia, Turkey, and Azerbaijan, with the latter requiring a special permit. It is also possible to exit through Egypt and Jordan, but with additional visa and fee requirements.

The Embassy of Bulgaria in Israel remains in constant contact with the local authorities and monitors the dynamic situation. The consular service in Tel Aviv will continue to receive urgent inquiries, despite the imposed restrictions. The MFA assures that it will inform Bulgarian citizens in a timely manner about all possibilities for safely leaving the dangerous zones.

The Ministry recommends that all Bulgarians in Israel and the neighboring countries register on the "I'm Traveling for..." platform of the MFA, so that they can receive up-to-date information and assistance if needed. The consular services in the region remain available for additional questions and assistance.

Given the deteriorating security situation, the MFA calls on Bulgarian citizens to strictly follow the recommendations of the local authorities and to avoid unnecessary travel to the Middle East region. The consular services will continue to monitor the situation and inform about all possibilities for safely leaving the dangerous zones.