Finland urges citizens to leave Israel and Iran as the security situation in the region enters a dangerous new phase. Following recent missile exchanges and political instability, Finnish authorities are calling on nationals in both countries to exit as soon as safely possible.
The Ministry for Foreign Affairs made a direct appeal to Finnish citizens in Israel on Sunday, recommending immediate departure due to increased threats after Iran retaliated against US-led airstrikes. These strikes targeted suspected Iranian nuclear development sites.
Finnish citizens in Iran are receiving similar guidance. Although the Finnish embassy in Tehran remains open, officials are warning that the overall security landscape is becoming more unpredictable. The embassy is advising people to leave by road through neighboring Turkey or Armenia. No visa is needed to exit this way, but travelers are urged to carry enough fuel, water, and food in case of delays or disruptions.
Ambassador Nina Nordström emphasized the severity of the situation. She confirmed that the Finnish embassy in Tel Aviv has moved to remote operations. Approximately 270 Finnish nationals are believed to still be in Israel. Some have already left the country using land crossings into Egypt or Jordan.
President Alexander Stubb weighed in on the matter through a post on X, highlighting that Iran must not be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon. He urged a diplomatic approach and called for cooperation between international allies to de-escalate the growing conflict. In his words, “The cycle of revenge in the Middle East must be broken. Finland stands for diplomacy, dialogue, and international law.”
Prime Minister Petteri Orpo also expressed his concerns, revealing that he had been in contact with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. He mentioned that EU foreign ministers would be meeting to discuss the crisis. Orpo reinforced Finland’s stance, making it clear that the country does not support the emergence of new nuclear-armed states. He referred to recent IAEA reports confirming that radiation levels at the bombed locations remain within normal range.
Not everyone agrees with the West’s response. Opposition lawmakers in Finland have openly criticized the US-led airstrikes on Iran. Former Foreign Minister Erkki Tuomioja called them illegal and questioned Finland’s diplomatic positioning. Veronika Honkasalo, another opposition MP, warned that such military actions risk destabilizing global peace and violate core principles of international law.
Government officials have also raised concerns. MP Sinuhe Wallinheimo pointed out that the consequences of the strike could reach beyond the region. He warned of cyber attacks, rising energy costs, and broader geopolitical fallout. Jarno Limnéll, a defense analyst and Member of Parliament, described the strikes as a pivotal moment for international order and global stability.
As tension rises, Finland continues to advise its citizens in Israel to stay close to shelters, avoid public gatherings, and follow local emergency procedures. Those in Iran are being strongly urged to leave while borders remain open and conditions still allow for safe passage. The overall message from the Finnish government is clear: the window for secure evacuation may close quickly.
