Elina Valtonen's instructions to Finns - 'The situation is serious'
Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen advises Finns in the Persian Gulf region to stay safe and follow local authorities' instructions amid rising tensions, particularly with Iran.
Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen has issued urgent advice to Finns located in the Persian Gulf region, emphasizing the seriousness of the current geopolitical situation. She recommends avoiding all travel to Iran due to escalating tensions, particularly after recent military actions by the United States and Israel against Iran. Valtonen's guidance includes steering clear of large crowds and potential protests, highlighting the importance of local authorities' directives for safety.
The situation appears increasingly precarious following reports of U.S. military operations in Iran and statements from President Donald Trump regarding the death of Iran's leader, Ali Khamenei. Reflecting on the turmoil, Valtonen reassures affected citizens that the Finnish Ministry of Foreign Affairs is closely monitoring developments through its embassies and ready to provide consular services as necessary. The Ministry's proactive stance aims to ensure the safety of Finnish nationals in a volatile environment.
Additionally, Finnair has canceled flights to Doha and Dubai for nearly a week (February 28 - March 6) due to safety concerns following the escalation of tensions in the region. This highlights the broader impact of the political unrest on travel and connectivity, leading to significant disruptions for travelers and showing the need for heightened caution amid rapidly changing circumstances in the Middle East.