China Eastern flight MU704 from Istanbul, Türkiye, touched down at Shanghai Pudong International Airport early on Tuesday morning with more than 70 passengers from China's Taiwan region among those onboard, according to the Shanghai General Station of Immigration Inspection.  

They are scheduled to continue their journey later on Tuesday on connecting flights to Taipei Songshan Airport and Taoyuan International Airport. 

It is the largest group of Taiwan residents to return to Taiwan region via the Chinese mainland since the recent escalation of tensions in the Middle East. A first group of 19 Taiwan residents also traveled to Shanghai from Istanbul after being stranded in the region.

Commenting on the US-Israeli attacks on Iran, Zhang Han, spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, said at a regular press conference last week that the mainland will, as always, take all necessary steps to safeguard the safety of Chinese citizens, including Taiwan compatriots in the region.

Taiwan compatriots in need of assistance may contact Chinese embassies or consulates in their area at any time, or call the 12308 consular protection hotline, Zhang added.

"No matter where they are or what difficulties they face, the motherland maintains steadfast support for all Taiwan compatriots," Zhang said.