The South African government has urged its citizens living or travelling in parts of the Middle East to consider leaving the region as tensions escalate and further military attacks are expected in the coming days.
The warning was issued by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), which said the deteriorating security situation could pose risks to foreign nationals, including South Africans.
Rising tensions across the Middle East
The latest escalation follows military strikes carried out by the United States and Israel against Iran, which have intensified an already fragile regional security environment. Reports indicate that the conflict has resulted in more than 1,000 deaths.
Iran has since launched retaliatory attacks across several parts of the Middle East. Strikes have reportedly been carried out in countries including the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Kuwait. Iranian authorities have stated that their targets include facilities associated with the presence of United States military forces.
The developments have raised concerns among governments around the world about the safety of their citizens in the region. Several countries have issued travel advisories or evacuation guidance as the situation continues to evolve.
South African citizens advised to depart
DIRCO said the South African government is closely monitoring the situation and has seen a significant increase in the number of citizens registering on the government’s Travel Smart platform. The system allows South Africans abroad to provide their details so that officials can contact them in case of emergencies or consular assistance.
As of 4 March 2026, more than 6,400 South African citizens had registered their presence in the Middle East through the platform.
Authorities are encouraging those who are in the region for non-essential reasons to begin making arrangements to leave affected cities and countries while travel routes remain available.
According to DIRCO, the recommendation is intended as a precautionary measure to ensure that South African citizens are prepared to exit the region if conditions deteriorate further.
The department also noted that several airlines have resumed limited commercial flights departing from certain locations in the Middle East. Citizens have been urged to make use of these services while they remain operational.
Government officials cautioned that the opportunity to leave the region may become more limited if hostilities intensify.
In addition to evacuation advice, South Africa has also warned its citizens against undertaking non-essential travel to the Middle East at this time.
DIRCO said its consular services remain available to assist South Africans experiencing difficulties with travel arrangements or requiring urgent support during the evacuation process.
The department reiterated its call for restraint among all parties involved in the conflict. It urged governments and military forces to act in accordance with international law, international humanitarian law and the principles of the United Nations Charter.
