South Africa urges nationals to leave Middle East

Cape Town, South Africa (PANA) – The South African Government has issued an urgent call for citizens currently in the Middle East for non-essential travel to evacuate the conflict-stricken region, as heavy attacks are expected to continue. 

The Department of International Relations and Co-operation (DIRCO) has advised SA nationals to take advantage of the limited commercial flights that have resumed to evacuate affected cities and countries. It noted a significant increase in registrations by South Africans on the Travel Smart system, with over 6,400 citizens in the region registering their presence as of Wednesday. 

“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. Your safety is our paramount concern,” it said. It also strongly discouraged all non-essential travel to the region at this time.

-0- PANA CU/MA 5March2026