Fact Check: "The Chinese embassy in Israel advised Chinese nationals to leave the country 'as soon as possible' via land border crossings, preferably in the direction of Jordan, due to escalating conflict in the region."
What We Know
Recent reports confirm that the Chinese embassy in Israel has indeed urged its citizens to leave the country "as soon as possible" due to the escalating conflict in the region. The embassy specifically recommended departing via land border crossings, particularly towards Jordan, while ensuring personal safety during the journey (source). The situation in Israel has deteriorated significantly, with ongoing military actions and increased civilian casualties, prompting the embassy's warning (source).
Additionally, the embassy's statement was disseminated through WeChat, emphasizing the urgency of the situation and the need for Chinese nationals to prioritize their safety (source). The conflict has been marked by heavy strikes exchanged between Israel and Iran, leading to fears of a broader conflict (source).
Analysis
The claim that the Chinese embassy in Israel advised its nationals to leave the country is supported by multiple credible sources. The Jamaica Observer reported the embassy's advisory, highlighting the recommendation to use land border crossings to Jordan. This aligns with information from other sources, such as the Global Times and AA, which also confirmed the embassy's guidance and noted that several land border crossings between Israel and Jordan remain open, albeit subject to sudden changes in accessibility.
The reliability of these sources is generally high, as they report on official statements from the Chinese government and corroborate the situation with additional context regarding the ongoing conflict. The urgency of the advisory is further supported by travel advisories from various governments, including the Australian government, which has raised its travel warning for Israel due to the volatile security situation (source).
While the situation is fluid and border crossings may close at short notice, the consistent messaging from multiple reputable outlets reinforces the authenticity of the embassy's advisory.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that the Chinese embassy in Israel advised its nationals to leave the country "as soon as possible" via land border crossings, preferably towards Jordan, is accurate. The embassy's statement reflects the current security situation in Israel, which has significantly worsened due to ongoing military conflicts.
Sources
- Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza International Travel Information
- Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories - Smartraveller
- Travel advisory - Israel - Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- China tells citizens in Israel to leave 'as soon as possible'
- Chinese Embassy again advises Chinese nationals in Israel
- Trump says 'everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran'
- China issues warning to its citizens in Israel
- Iran-Israel conflict live updates