In response to escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, the Netherlands has taken precautionary measures, announcing the closure of its embassy in Tehran and consulate in Erbil. The decision, effective immediately, comes amidst growing concerns that Iran may retaliate against Israel following recent incidents.

A statement from the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs cited the need for caution, stating, "The Dutch embassy in Tehran and the consulate in Erbil will be closed to the public on Sunday out of an abundance of caution." The closure will be reevaluated on Sunday to determine whether the consular desks will reopen on Monday, hinting at the possibility of an extended closure.

Tensions between Iran and Israel have been heightened since an April 1 attack on the Iranian embassy in Damascus, which Iran has attributed to Israel. The attack resulted in the deaths of two generals from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

Israel's continued strikes against Iranian-affiliated militias in Syria and Lebanon have further exacerbated the situation. Previous retaliatory actions by Iran have targeted sites in the Kurdistan Region, alleging connections to Israel's intelligence agency, Mossad. In January, an Iranian missile strike in Erbil claimed the lives of four people, including an infant, in an attack on a businessman's home, despite officials claiming no ties to Israel.

The closure of the Dutch diplomatic missions in Iran and Iraq follows similar precautionary measures taken by other nations. France has issued a travel advisory warning its citizens against travel to Iran, Lebanon, Israel, and the Palestinian territories, while recalling diplomatic families from Tehran. Additionally, the United States Embassy in Israel has restricted personal travel for government employees and their families outside specific areas until further notice.

Efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region are underway, with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken engaging in diplomatic discussions with foreign counterparts. Pentagon spokesperson Major General Pat Ryder noted that top US commander General Erik Kurilla has expedited his visit to Israel to discuss security threats in the region with key Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) leadership.

As tensions continue to rise in the Middle East, diplomatic efforts and precautionary measures are being undertaken to mitigate the risk of further escalation.