The Department of International Relations and Cooperation has urgently advised more than 6,400 citizens in the Middle East to evacuate via limited commercial flights as attacks and regional instability escalate.
South Africa has urged its citizens in the Middle East to “take immediate advantage” of the resumption of limited commercial flights out of the region amid the ongoing military action.
In a statement on Wednesday, 4 March, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) said it had noted a significant increase in registrations on its Travel Smart system, with more than 6,400 South African citizens in the Middle East registering their presence as of 4 March.
Read more ‘It’s about law, not politics’ — SA’s Dirco boss on US-Israeli strikes and Iran’s retaliation March 3, 2026 “South African citizens currently in the region for non-essential travel who wish to evacuate cities and countries affected by the ongoing interstate conflict in the Middle East are strongly advised to use the official channels listed below. This proactive measure is essential to prepare for an exit from the danger zones 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. Citizens are strongly encouraged to take immediate advantage of this opportunity to leave, as heavy attacks are regrettably expected to continue in…
