Philenews

Shelters Open in Beersheba, Israel – Canada and China Urge Citizens to Leave Iran

Published February 27, 2026, 14:10
Shelters Open in Beersheba, Israel – Canada and China Urge Citizens to Leave Iran

Preparations and public warnings suggesting an imminent military confrontation are being recorded in recent hours in both Israel and Iran, intensifying concerns about a new escalation in the Middle East. At noon on Friday, following an urgent message from the US ambassador approving the departure of non-essential personnel and family members stationed in Israel due to “security risks”, the mayor of the city of Beersheba, in southern Israel, ordered the opening of all public shelters in the wider area. “Following the mayor’s order, general opening of all public shelters” read the relevant message sent to those in the city. At the same time, the Chinese embassy in Israel called on its citizens in the country to increase security measures and prepare for emergencies. “Chinese citizens residing in Israel must closely monitor new developments and information published by Israeli authorities. Citizens should also avoid traveling abroad unless necessary,” the relevant update states. So far, however, there is no directive from the IDF or other government agencies for a general opening of shelters in the country. China and Canada urge citizens to leave Iran However, moves are not being made in Israel, but also in Iran, as there are successive messages from the US in recent weeks about an impending strike if an agreement is not reached in the nuclear talks between the two countries. Thus, in a strict travel advisory to its citizens, China called on them to avoid any travel to Iran, citing “a significant increase in external security risks”. In a statement, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said: “In light of the current security situation in Iran, the Chinese Foreign Ministry and Chinese embassies and consulates in Iran remind Chinese citizens to avoid traveling to Iran for the time being.” It also recommends that those already in the country strengthen personal protection measures and “depart as soon as possible”. Canada issued a similar warning, calling on its citizens in Iran to leave the country immediately, as tensions in the region remain high. “Canadians in Iran: Due to ongoing tensions, hostilities in the region may recur with little or no warning. Leave Iran now, if you can do so safely,” the government announcement states. Authorities also urge citizens to ensure that their travel documents are up to date and have sufficient supplies in case they need to take shelter. Earlier this week, Australia announced…