Africa

African Governments Issue Urgent Travel Warnings

Citizens urged to register, evacuate, and stay alert as Middle East tensions rise

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Newstimehub

2 Mar, 2026

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As the conflict between Iran, Israel, and the United States escalates, African governments are acting fast to safeguard their citizens abroad. The crisis began after a joint U.S.–Israeli strike killed Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, followed by Iranian retaliatory attacks that disrupted global air travel.

South Africa urged its citizens in the Middle East to register with embassies to stay on official radar, noting that airspace closures and security risks could limit evacuation options. Uganda advised its nationals in Iran to leave if possible and withdrew non-essential embassy staff.

Ghana suspended all non-essential travel to the region, warning of potential exposure to combat zones and disruptions to the Strait of Hormuzian gulf”], a key oil route affecting global energy markets. Kenya also issued travel and safety advisories, urging extreme caution in several Middle Eastern countries and stressing embassy registration.

The African Union called for restraint and dialogue, highlighting the risks of economic fallout, food insecurity, and wider instability if the conflict continues. African governments are balancing diplomacy with urgent citizen protection, while watching closely for signs of de-escalation.

Source: TRT Africa