led a meeting of the Middle East Crisis Command this morning. There, he received a report on the assistance being provided to compatriots by Peruvian diplomatic and consular missions in the conflict zone.
During the session, priorities, potential evacuation routes, and protection strategies were defined to ensure an effective response to the current emergency in the Middle East.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry reported that the sector's head highlighted the importance of the work carried out by heads of mission in Saudi Arabia (responsible for Peru's representation in Bahrain and Oman), Qatar, Dubai, Egypt (which also covers Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria), the United Arab Emirates, Israel, Kuwait, and Türkiye (also accredited to Iran).
Likewise, the high-ranking official urged that all efforts be focused on supporting and assisting fellow citizens in the conflict zone.
"It is our duty and commitment," he underscored.
De Zela recalled that the priority at this time is to safeguard the integrity of fellow citizens, ensuring that they are in safe locations.
The missions in the region maintain constant communication with fellow citizens, providing them with assistance and guidance, both to Peruvian residents and to those in transit who were stranded due to the closure of airspace.
Facilitating eventual evacuation
In turn, the heads of mission reported on the latest actions taken in response to this emergency.
In coordination with local authorities, routes and safe zones for fellow citizens in the Middle East and the Gulf were identified.
The reopening of airspace in the Gulf is being monitored as well.
In this scenario, the diplomatic missions reported that they are coordinating with local Foreign Affairs ministries to facilitate migration procedures for Peruvians in the event of an evacuation through authorized border crossings.
The ambassadors indicated that they keep multiple channels open at all hours to assist, guide, and share information necessary for Peruvians' safety.
In the case of fellow citizens who are in transit in the conflict zone, guidance is being provided for a safe transfer to less dangerous countries, prioritizing those in more vulnerable situations.
Continuous coordination is also being maintained to support the issuance of visas.
Peruvians in Dubai
The in-person and phone actions carried out by the consular office with various hotels were highlighted, securing reductions in accommodation rates for groups of Peruvians in transit.
Assistance with medical needs was also provided, while coordination with airlines continues for the rescheduling of their flights.
The Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister, the Secretary General, as well as officials from the Foreign Affairs Ministry's political and consular offices participated in the Middle East Crisis Command.