The South African government has made an urgent appeal to its nationals in the Middle East to leave the region immediately, warning that sustained military operations show no signs of abating. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) on Wednesday called on citizens who are in the area for non-essential purposes to make use of the limited commercial airline services that have recently resumed operations.
According to Dirco, more than 6 400 South Africans in the region had registered their presence on the Travel Smart system by Wednesday, representing a marked increase in sign-ups. The department implored citizens to act swiftly, noting that a window of opportunity exists with the resumption of certain flight routes out of affected cities and countries.
"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," the department stated. It further urged South Africans to avoid all non-essential travel to the Middle East for the time being.
The escalating crisis in the region has captured worldwide attention, with hostilities involving Israel, Iran and the United States at the centre of the conflict. A pattern of military strikes and retaliatory action has resulted in considerable civilian casualties and extensive destruction across the area.
Dirco confirmed that South Africans encountering challenges during the evacuation process or in need of emergency consular assistance may reach out to designated contact lines and officials for support.
The department also reaffirmed Pretoria's position on the conflict, stating: "South Africa takes this opportunity to reiterate its firm call on all parties to the conflict to exercise maximum restraint and to act in a manner consistent with international law, international humanitarian law and the principles of the United Nations Charter."
