‘Leave Now’: SA Government Orders Citizens to Evacuate Middle East as Conflict Intensifies

The South African government has issued an urgent call to its citizens in the Middle East: leave now.

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has advised South Africans living in the region to evacuate immediately, as heavy attacks are expected in the coming days.

The Context

The region has plunged into chaos after the USA and Israel launched military attacks into Iran, leading to over a thousand deaths, including that of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Iran has responded by launching attacks across the region, with strikes reported in the UAE, Qatar, and Kuwait. Tehran claims it is targeting facilities hosting US troops.

The Numbers

There are now over 6,400 South African citizens registered in the Middle East as of 4 March 2026, according to DIRCO’s Travel Smart system.

The Message

“South African citizens living in the region for non-essential travel who wish to evacuate cities and countries affected by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East are strongly advised to use official government channels.”

DIRCO said the proactive measure is essential in preparing for an exit from the danger zone as soon as it is safe to secure passage.

“We urge all citizens to note that several airlines have resumed limited commercial flights out of the region,” DIRCO said.

“Citizens are strongly encouraged to take immediate advantage of this opportunity to leave, as heavy attacks are regrettably expected to continue in the coming days.”

South Africans are also strongly discouraged from all non-essential travel to the region at this time.

Emergency Contacts

South Africans experiencing difficulties or requiring urgent consular support should contact:

• South African Emergency Line (DIRCO): +27 12 351 1000 (Request Consular Services)

• South African Embassy (Amman, Jordan): +962 6-461-5167

• Jordan Border Inquiry: +962 5 393 3031

• Email for Coordination: [email protected] or [email protected]

• Emergency Consular Support:

  • Mr. Litha Ngwanya: +972 50-520-8100 | Email: [email protected]

  • Ms. Lizelle Segev: +972 54-588-0698 | Email: [email protected]

The Bottom Line

DIRCO reiterated its firm call on all parties in the conflict to exercise maximum restraint and act in accordance with international law, the Geneva Conventions, and the UN Charter.

For the 6,400 South Africans in the region, the message is simpler: get out while you can. The window is closing.

{Source: BusinessTech}

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