South Africa has warned its citizens in Iran to exercise caution and register with the country’s embassy in Tehran as hostilities between Iran and Israel escalate.
The Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation on Monday advised South Africans in Iran to ensure their whereabouts are known to the embassy.
“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,” the ministry said.
It called on South African citizens “to assess their own safety and security and act accordingly.”
The warning comes as tensions between Iran and Israel reach dangerous levels, with both nations launching retaliatory strikes in recent days.
The conflict has resulted in civilian casualties, infrastructure damage and heightened fears of a broader regional war.
South Africa expressed deep concern over the violence, extending condolences to affected communities and calling for de-escalation and compliance with international law.
“South Africa emphasises that under international humanitarian law, civilians and civilian infrastructure must never be considered legitimate targets.”
It urged all parties to exercise restraint, warning that continued hostilities could lead to further humanitarian suffering.
The conflict has been described as a “proxy war” between Western and Eastern powers involving control of the Middle East.
Experts say Iran has always been a favourite target of Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu who has the full backing of the United States.
Netanyahu – and the US – believe that Tehran’s influence over Palestinian factions and the Shia community in the Middle East puts Tel Aviv within range of rockets and missiles.
The recurring theme repeated by Netanyahu of an existential struggle against Iranian denial of Israel’s legitimacy has also been fuelled by advances in Iran’s nuclear programme.
JN/APA