The South African government has called on all South Africans currently in the Middle East to urgently contact their nearest embassies or consulates to ensure they are registered and their whereabouts known, as escalating regional conflict continues to disrupt travel and consular services.
The appeal comes as scores of citizens remain stranded in the region after widespread airspace closures grounded commercial flights, making it difficult for travellers to return home.
Fighting involving Iran, Israel and the United States has triggered what officials describe as the most severe disruption to global air travel since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Thousands of flights have been cancelled or rerouted, while major aviation hubs, including Dubai and Doha, have temporarily suspended operations.
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) warned that South Africa’s ability to provide assistance in affected countries may be limited. It said face-to-face consular support may not always be possible during emergencies and that assistance could vary depending on a person’s location and security conditions.
In a message posted on X, DIRCO spokesperson Clayson Monyela said officials are maintaining contact with citizens through multiple communication channels.
“We are in touch with South Africans using various communications platforms. Our systems do work. Every country’s diplomatic mission has evacuation plans. Various interventions and options are being explored,” Monyela said.
Authorities have urged travellers to remain in regular contact with embassies, monitor official updates and avoid unnecessary movement until air travel stabilises