China tells citizens to avoid travelling to Iran

China warned its citizens on Friday to avoid travelling to Iran, citing a "significant rise in external security risks" as the country faces repeated threats of US strikes.

"In light of the current security situation in Iran, China's Foreign Ministry and Chinese embassies and consulates in Iran remind Chinese citizens to avoid traveling to Iran for the time being," Beijing's foreign ministry said in a statement.

"Chinese nationals currently in Iran are advised to strengthen safety precautions and evacuate as soon as possible."