Evacuation Underway as Over 6,400 South Africans Register Amid Escalating Middle East Conflict

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has confirmed a significant rise in the number of South African citizens registering their presence in the Middle East, as tensions and interstate conflict continue to escalate across parts of the region.

As of 4 March 2026, more than 6,400 South Africans have registered on the Travel Smart system, indicating their presence in various Middle Eastern countries affected by the ongoing hostilities.

Citizens Urged to Use Official Evacuation Channels

DIRCO has strongly advised South Africans currently in the region for non-essential travel to make use of official evacuation channels to prepare for a safe departure from conflict-affected cities and countries.

The department noted that several airlines have resumed limited commercial flights from parts of the region. Citizens are being urged to take immediate advantage of these available flights while passage remains possible.

“Heavy attacks are regrettably expected to continue in the coming days,” the department cautioned, emphasizing that the safety of South African nationals remains a top priority.

In addition, the government has strongly discouraged all non-essential travel to the Middle East at this time.

Emergency Consular Support Available

South Africans experiencing difficulties with evacuation or in need of urgent consular assistance have been encouraged to contact DIRCO officials through the designated emergency lines.

Official Contact Information for Consular Support:

• South African Emergency Line (DIRCO): +27 12 351 1000 (Request Consular Services)
• South African Embassy – Amman, Jordan: +962 6 461 5167
• Jordan Border Inquiry: +962 5 393 3031
• Email for Coordination: ngwanyaa@dirco.gov.za | segevl@dirco.gov.za

Emergency Consular Officials:

• Mr. Litha Ngwanya: +972 50 520 8100 | ngwanyaa@dirco.gov.za
• Ms. Lizelle Segev: +972 54 588 0698 | segevl@dirco.gov.za

Call for Restraint

South Africa has reiterated its firm call on all parties involved in the conflict to exercise maximum restraint and to act in accordance with international law, international humanitarian law, and the principles of the United Nations Charter.

DIRCO assured citizens that it continues to monitor developments closely and remains committed to supporting South Africans affected by the crisis.