TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has assisted 156 Taiwanese nationals in departing Israel, while 147 others have opted to stay, Foreign Minister Joseph Wu said on Tuesday (Oct. 17).
According to Wu, those who chose to remain in Israel have done so because "most of them do not perceive significant concerns yet."
He added that the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Tel Aviv will maintain close contact with the Taiwanese citizens who are still in Israel, and will provide any necessary assistance.
Wu also criticized the recent attack by the Palestinian militant group Hamas, which carried out a surprise strike against Israel on Oct. 7.
He expressed support for those affected and stated, "We will continue monitoring the developments in the region."
In the wake of the attack, MOFA has raised its travel advisories for Israel to "orange," advising Taiwanese citizens to avoid non-essential travel to the area.