Government has appealed to South African citizens currently in the Islamic Republic of Iran to contact the Embassy in Tehran to ensure that they are registered, and that their whereabouts are known to the embassy.

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) in Pretoria has been closely following developments, amid the military conflict between Iran and the State of Israel.

“It is important to note that South Africa’s support in the country is 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,” Dirco said in a statement.

“Therefore, citizens are further encouraged to assess their own safety and security and act accordingly.”

The following contacts may be utilised:

Tehran telephone numbers: +98-912-230-8968 or +98-930-495-8965

Helpline of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation in Pretoria: +27 12 351 1000. The web page of DIRCO may be consulted for further contact information (www.dirco.gov.za).

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On Saturday, IOL reported that government has expressed “profound” concern regarding the attacks conducted by Israel on targets within Iran on Friday, including reported impacts on military areas, nuclear facilities, and civilian infrastructure. 

On Friday, AFP reported that Iran called Israel’s wave of strikes a declaration of war, while US President Donald Trump warned Tehran of “even more brutal” attacks if it does not make a deal on its nuclear programme.

On Friday night, Iran had launched retaliatory attacks on Israel, with rapid airstrikes and explosions recorded in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, the country’s two largest cities.

In Pretoria, Dirco expressed deep concern over reports of civilian casualties alongside military personnel.

“These actions raise serious concerns under international law, including the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the protection of civilians enshrined in the UN Charter and international humanitarian law,” said Chrispin Phiri, spokesperson for the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola.

jonisayi.maromo@iol.co.za

IOL News 

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