Switzerland Reduces Iran Embassy Staff, Updates Middle East Travel Warnings Amid Escalation

Swiss Embassy in Tehran Sees Staff Reduction

Switzerland has scaled back its diplomatic presence in Tehran, Iran, reducing the number of embassy staff from 14 to 10 people. This decision, announced by the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) around February 28, 2026, follows a significant escalation in the security situation across the Middle East. Four Swiss embassy employees departed Iran on March 3, 2026, and are en route to Switzerland. Ambassador Nadine Olivieri Lozano remains on site, and the embassy continues to operate, albeit with limited consular services.

The FDFA stated that the staff reduction is a precautionary measure in light of the volatile environment. Switzerland maintains its role as a protecting power for the United States in Iran, a mandate it has held since 1980, and confirmed that this diplomatic channel remains active.

Broadened Travel Warnings for the Middle East

In conjunction with the staff reduction, Switzerland has significantly updated its travel advisories for Iran and several other nations in the Middle East. The FDFA expressed 'deep alarm' regarding the escalation in the region, particularly following military strikes on Iran by the United States and Israel.

Key updates to travel advice include:

• Iran: The FDFA has advised against travel to Iran since August 2024, a warning that has now been strengthened to 'avoid all travel'. Swiss nationals currently in Iran are urged to consider leaving using commercial options, as consular assistance would be 'extremely limited' if conditions deteriorate further. Visa processing for Schengen C and national D visas in Tehran has been suspended.
• Israel and Occupied Palestinian Territories: Travel has been generally advised against since February 28, 2026.
• Lebanon: A general advisory against travel has been in effect since March 2, 2026.
• Bahrain, Kuwait, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan: Tourist and non-urgent travel has been generally advised against since March 1, 2026.
• Iraq and the semi-autonomous region of Kurdistan: Travel has been advised against since March 3, 2026.
• Egypt, Cyprus, and Turkey: Travel advisories were updated on March 2 and 3, 2026, respectively, to include new sections on 'Current events' and regional risks.

Swiss authorities are urging their citizens in the region to follow instructions from local authorities, register their travel with the Travel Admin app, and contact the FDFA helpline if necessary. The FDFA has clarified that it will not organize departures, and individuals are responsible for their own travel arrangements and expenses. Approximately 180 Swiss nationals are registered in Iran, and around 25,000 in Israel, many of whom hold dual citizenship.

Call for De-escalation

Switzerland has reiterated its call for all parties to exercise 'maximum restraint' and ensure full compliance with international law, including the UN Charter and international humanitarian law. The FDFA emphasized the importance of protecting civilians and civilian infrastructure, urging de-escalation to resolve conflicts through diplomatic means.