A total of 33 Chinese nationals who had been working in Iran arrived safely in Urumqi, the capital of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, on Wednesday, after Chinese authorities helped to evacuate them from the war-torn country.
After the regional crisis was sparked by joint U.S. and Israeli military strikes on Iran on Feb. 28, Chinese authorities have been working to assist nationals stranded overseas amid the worsening situation in the Middle East.
Following extensive coordination by Chinese diplomatic missions, the evacuees were rerouted on a China Southern Airlines flight from Azerbaijan back to China.
Upon arrival, the Urumqi Immigration Inspection Station activated a dedicated "green channel" to ensure their fast and efficient clearance, easing their journey home after their traumatic experience.
"At first, I was really anxious. With the help of the embassy staff, we all made it back home safely. I feel truly relieved and happy," said Tian Heguo, one of the Chinese evacuees.
"We aim to show our care through thoughtful service, streamlining the inspection process, and easing anxieties with patient and calm communication. Our goal is to make every returnee feel the warmth and comfort of home the moment they set foot on Chinese soil," said Zhao Zijing, a captain for the Third Duty Team at the Urumqi Immigration Inspection Station.
Over 30 Chinese nationals evacuated from Iran arrive in Urumqi
Over 30 Chinese nationals evacuated from Iran arrive in Urumqi
People across Iran took to the streets on Friday to mark International Quds Day, an annual event expressing support for Palestinians and condemnation of Israeli actions.
Several high-ranking Iranian officials also took part in the rallies in Tehran, including President Masoud Pezeshkian, Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) Ali Larijani, Judiciary Chief Gholamhossein Mohseni-Ejei as well as cabinet ministers, such as Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi.
The event, established by Iran in 1979, is observed on the final Friday of the fasting month of Ramadan. This year, it fell on March 13 and amid the ongoing U.S.-Israeli strikes against Iran.
In the capital, people marched from 10 different locations towards the iconic Enghelab Square in central Tehran, while waving Iran's flags and holding pictures of Iran's late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and his successor, Mojtaba Khamenei.
The marchers condemned the "crimes" committed by the United States and Israel, voiced their support for the Iranian armed forces, and pledged allegiance to the new supreme leader.
According to the official news agency IRNA, Tehran's central areas near the rally path came under U.S. and Israeli airstrikes in the early minutes of the gathering, killing at least one person. Addressing reporters after the strikes, Larijani said the attacks are "out of fear and desperation."
Araghchi said despite the attacks today, millions of people have taken part in the rallies across Iran, which shows "the Iranians' firm determination and will in supporting" the country.
On Feb 28, Israel and the United States launched joint attacks on Tehran and several other Iranian cities, killing Iran's then Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, along with senior military commanders and civilians. Iran responded by launching waves of missile and drone strikes targeting Israel and U.S. bases and assets in the Middle East.
Iran's Assembly of Experts on Sunday announced the appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei as Iran's new supreme leader.
Iranians hold mass rallies to mark Quds Day amid U.S.-Israeli attacks
