More than 6,400 South African citizens have told the government that they are currently in countries across the Middle East as fighting in the region continues to grow. South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) shared the information. According to the department, many people registered their details through the government’s Travel Smart system.
This system helps officials know where South Africans are when they travel abroad, especially during emergencies. In the past few days, the number of registrations has increased quickly as people in the region look for guidance and support. DIRCO said the situation in the Middle East is becoming more dangerous as tensions between the United States, Israel, and Iran continue to rise. Because of this, the government is advising South African citizens in the affected areas to consider leaving while commercial flights are still operating. Officials warned that opportunities to leave may become limited if the conflict becomes worse.
In a statement, the department strongly encouraged citizens to make use of any available flights as soon as possible. It also warned that heavy attacks could continue in the coming days. The government also said that providing help through embassies and consulates could become more difficult if the security situation keeps changing, which may hinder citizens’ ability to receive assistance during emergencies. For this reason, citizens are urged to act quickly and stay in contact with South African officials.
At the same time, the department advised people in South Africa not to travel to the Middle East unless it is absolutely necessary. Authorities say the situation remains unpredictable and could change very quickly, which may lead to further escalations in violence and instability in the region. The conflict has already caused serious disruption across the region. Missile strikes, drone attacks, and military operations have increased tensions and raised fears of a wider war. The conflict has also affected several neighbouring countries, such as Lebanon, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar. Increased security measures have made travel more difficult for civilians. Controls have tightened at many borders, leading to the cancellation or delay of some flights.
Airspace restrictions in certain areas are also making evacuation plans harder for foreign nationals who want to leave the region, particularly in conflict zones where access to safe routes is limited and coordination with local authorities is challenging. DIRCO said the safety of South African citizens remains its highest priority. The department is working with diplomatic missions across the Middle East to monitor the situation closely. Officials said South Africans who need urgent help should contact the nearest embassy or call the government’s emergency support lines. The South African embassy in Jordan is also helping coordinate assistance for citizens who are trying to leave the region safely.
