China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Chinese diplomatic mission in Iran on Friday advised Chinese citizens to avoid travel to Iran, urging nationals currently in the country to strengthen security precautions and leave as soon as possible.

The Chinese embassies and consulates in Iran and neighboring countries will provide necessary assistance to Chinese citizens seeking to relocate via commercial flights or overland routes, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said in view of the current security situation in Iran.

External security risks facing Iran have risen markedly in recent weeks, and a number of countries have issued advisories urging their citizens to evacuate.

(Cover: The main building of China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. /VCG)