Escalating tensions in the Middle East have triggered widespread panic and uncertainty among South Africans stranded in the region, particularly in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), following the closure of key airspace corridors and the cancellation of multiple international flights.
The disruption, linked to the intensifying conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran, has left travellers unable to return home, with many reporting difficulty in securing alternative travel arrangements or obtaining immediate assistance. The suspension of flights to and from parts of the Middle East has created logistical chaos, stranding passengers at transit hubs and prompting urgent appeals for clarity.
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has urged all South African citizens currently in the Middle East to immediately contact their respective embassies or high commissions to ensure they are registered and that their whereabouts are known.
“South Africa wishes to urge all its citizens currently in the Middle East region to contact the respective embassies accredited to their countries of residence to ensure that they are registered with and that their whereabouts are known to the embassies,” the department said in a statement.
However, DIRCO cautioned that its ability to provide direct assistance may be severely limited under the current conditions.
“It is important to note that South Africa’s support in these countries could be limited and that it could be assumed that no face-to-face consular assistance will be possible in an emergency and the South African Government may not be able to help you if you get into difficulty, depending on your location. Therefore, citizens are further encouraged to assess their own safety and security and act accordingly,” the department added.
Stranded citizens have been advised to maintain close contact with airlines and local authorities while monitoring official communication channels for verified updates.
Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed deep concern over the escalation, warning that the developments pose a serious threat to regional and international peace and security, with far-reaching humanitarian, diplomatic, and economic consequences.
Ramaphosa urged all parties to exercise maximum restraint and to act in accordance with international law, international humanitarian law, and the principles of the United Nations Charter.
Referring to Article 51 of the UN Charter, he noted that the provision allows for self-defence only when a state has been subjected to an armed invasion. “Anticipatory self-defence is not permitted under international law and self-defence cannot be based on assumption or anticipation,” he said.
Ramaphosa emphasised that military confrontation has historically failed to deliver sustainable peace.
“Experience has repeatedly demonstrated that there can be no military solution to fundamentally political problems that can and should be resolved diplomatically. Long-term peace and stability can only be achieved through inclusive dialogue and a genuine commitment to justice and coexistence,” Ramaphosa said.
He reiterated his call for intensified diplomatic engagement to de-escalate tensions and create space for meaningful negotiations.
“We urge the international community, including multilateral institutions and regional partners, to redouble efforts aimed at promoting mediation and peaceful resolution. As a nation that has emerged from conflict through dialogue and reconciliation, South Africa remains steadfast in its belief that peace is not only possible, but imperative for the shared future of the Middle East and the world,” the President added.
Separately, the Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) confirmed ongoing global flight disruptions due to the evolving security situation and the continued closure of UAE airspace.
Travellers scheduled to depart from South African airports to destinations in the Middle East and the UAE have been strongly advised not to proceed to airport precincts without first confirming the status of their flights directly with their respective airlines.
ACSA said it remains in constant coordination with aviation stakeholders and is monitoring developments closely.
“ACSA continues to monitor developments in coordination with aviation stakeholders. We acknowledge the inconvenience caused and extend our support to all affected travellers. Please rely only on verified information from official sources. Further updates will be shared as they become available,” the company said.
South Africans requiring urgent assistance have been advised to contact DIRCO’s headquarters or the nearest South African mission.
anita.nkonki@inl.co.za
Saturday Star