Kazakhstan Orders Emergency Planning Amid Rising Iran Tensions

Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has instructed security agencies to prepare an emergency response plan as tensions surrounding Iran escalate, raising concerns about potential regional instability.

According to presidential press secretary Aibek Smadiyarov, Tokayev tasked the Security Council and law enforcement bodies with developing coordinated urgent measures. All security agencies have been placed on a 24-hour operational footing, while a government monitoring group has been established under the Foreign Ministry.

Regional governors have also been told to take precautionary steps in response to developments in the Middle East. The move comes as tensions intensified following reported strikes on Iranian targets and growing fears of wider instability.

Kazakhstan has already begun taking practical measures. Air Astana extended its suspension of Middle East flights through March 3 after the country’s aviation regulator imposed a temporary ban on flights to the region. The airline said it would continue monitoring the situation and update passengers on further changes.

The Foreign Ministry has also issued emergency contact lines for Kazakh citizens in several Middle Eastern countries as part of contingency planning.

The developments highlight Kazakhstan’s cautious approach as geopolitical tensions rise, with authorities seeking to prepare for potential spillover effects on security, travel and regional stability.

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