During a regular press conference today, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Pham Thu Hang announced that Vietnamese vessels in the Middle East "remain safe." She affirmed that Vietnamese representative agencies in the region have been closely monitoring the situation, regularly updating information, and maintaining contact with vessels and crew members operating there, preparing to provide assistance if necessary.

To address concerns, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has coordinated with the Ministry of Construction to engage with the Iranian Embassy in Hanoi and the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. "We have requested Iran to facilitate and provide assistance to ensure the safety of Vietnamese vessels and workers leaving the area and navigating safely through the Strait of Hormuz as soon as possible," Hang stated.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Pham Thu Hang. *Photo: BNG*

Following Vietnam's request, Iranian authorities are currently implementing procedures related to the movement of Vietnamese vessels. Concurrently, Vietnamese authorities are collaborating with businesses and shipowners to prepare necessary documentation and are working with local Iranian authorities on technical requirements. This aims to enable Vietnamese cargo vessels and crew to move promptly while ensuring their security and safety during transit.

Location of the Strait of Hormuz. *Graphic: Guardian*

Regarding the broader situation of Vietnamese citizens in the Middle East, the Foreign Ministry spokesperson added that Vietnamese representative agencies in Iran, Israel, and neighboring countries have reviewed and compiled the wishes of citizens. They have coordinated with relevant authorities to prepare appropriate support plans.

To date, Vietnamese representative agencies have assisted 556 citizens stranded in the Middle East. These agencies continue to monitor the situation, maintain close contact with local authorities, and prepare scenarios for promptly protecting and evacuating citizens in emergencies.

Hotlines for citizen protection are available at Vietnamese representative agencies in the Middle East.

Ngoc Anh