The conflict in the Middle East forced the closure of Ecuador's embassy in Israel.

The Embassy of Ecuador in Israel announced on Monday, June 16, 2025, the temporary closure of its offices in Tel Aviv due to the escalation of the armed conflict between Israel and Iran. The decision was made following the mandatory lockdown order issued by the Home Front Command, the civil defense unit of the Israel Defense Forces. According to the official statement, the measure is preventive and seeks to protect the integrity of diplomatic staff and Ecuadorian citizens residing in that country. Missile and drone attacks that have reached urban areas such as Tel Aviv and Jerusalem have created an extremely high-risk scenario, forcing foreign missions to suspend in-person activities.

The Embassy urged the Ecuadorian community in Israel to exercise extreme caution, remain calm, and strictly follow the security guidelines issued by local authorities. The Embassy also recommended identifying the nearest shelters and avoiding unnecessary travel.

Additionally, the Embassy advised against planning trips to Israel or other parts of the Middle East affected by the escalation of the conflict. The situation is volatile and may change suddenly, so people are asked to stay informed only through official channels.

Although in-person services have been suspended, the Consular Section of the Embassy remains operational remotely. For inquiries or emergencies, Ecuadorians can contact the number +972 53-950-7255 or the email address cecutelaviv@cancilleria.gob.ec.

The Government of Ecuador, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reiterated its commitment to protecting the rights and safety of its citizens abroad. Continuous monitoring of the situation will be maintained and new actions will be evaluated if the conflict intensifies.

The closure of the Ecuadorian embassy comes in a highly delicate regional context. Israel has declared control of its airspace and has confirmed the deaths of high-ranking Iranian officials, while Iran has replied with new attacks that have reached densely populated areas.

Geopolitical tensions have also forced other nations to make similar decisions. Embassies of European, Asian, and Latin American countries have limited or ceased their physical operations in Israel, strengthening digital and telephone channels to maintain consular contact.

The conflict between Israel and Iran represents not only a military threat but also a diplomatic challenge for countries with citizens in the area. Ecuador has chosen a preventive stance, seeking to guarantee assistance without putting its staff at risk. In this uncertain scenario, the call from the Ecuadorian Embassy in Tel Aviv is clear: prudence, official information, and civic responsibility. The decisions made in the coming hours could be key to preserving lives and avoiding further complications.