Pretoria – Several airlines have resumed limited commercial flights out of the Middle East, and the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has advised South Africans to take advantage of this opportunity.
A major military conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran has entered its fifth day, marked by widespread airstrikes, missile exchanges, and regional escalations that have drawn in allied militias and neighboring states.
“We urge all citizens to note that several airlines have resumed limited commercial flights out of the region,” DIRCO said in a statement made available to The Bulrushes on Wednesday, 4 March 2026.
“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.”
DIRCO said it noted a significant increase in registrations by South Africans on the Travel Smart system, with over 6 400 citizens in the Middle East registering their presence as of 4 March 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…
“This proactive measure is essential to prepare for an exit from the danger zone as soon as it is safe to secure passage.
“Your safety is our paramountconcern.”
Furthermore, DIRCO stated that South Africans were “strongly discouraged” from all non-essential travel to the region at this time.
If you are experiencing difficulties with the evacuation process or require urgent consular support, please contact a department official immediately through the channels below:
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 or segevl@dirco.gov.za
Emergency Consular Support:
Mr. Litha Ngwanya: +972 50-520-8100 ngwanyaa@dirco.gov.za
Ms. Lizelle Segev: +972 54-588-0698
“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,” DIRCO said.
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