South Africans begin returning home as Middle East conflict worsens
As the Middle East crisis escalates, hundreds of South Africans stranded in the region are finally making their way home, following the partial reopening of airspace and resumption of limited commercial flights. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has urged citizens to take advantage of these flights immediately, warning that fighting shows no signs of slowing.
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Flights resume amid tense skies
According to ,airspace closures across the Gulf, triggered by US-Israeli strikes on Iran and retaliatory attacks, left thousands stranded. Civilian aircraft were at risk of being caught in missile or drone fire, prompting countries to temporarily shut down their skies.
Now, carriers like Emirates and South African Airways (SAA) are gradually restoring operations, though capacity remains limited. At least 150 South Africans, many on pilgrimage in Jerusalem, have been repatriated through African carriers such as EgyptAir. Emirates resumed three daily flights from Dubai, allowing hundreds more to begin their journey home.
Social media shares relief and caution
Media personality Spitch Nzawumbi, who returned on Friday, took to social media to warn fellow travellers:
“If there are any South Africans in the Middle East trying to fly back, Emirates Airlines has confirmed limited scheduled flights to South Africa from Dubai. Do not go straight to the airport without booking confirmation—standby passengers should arrive early and pack lightly.”
Other travellers shared the financial and logistical headaches caused by flight cancellations. A Durban family, en route to Amsterdam, spoke of the anxiety and cost of being stranded:
“We had no clue what was happening when our Dubai flight was cancelled. Now, looking back, we’re thankful it happened just before the conflict escalated. But my heart goes out to those still stuck—six days in Dubai is extremely challenging, even if meals and hotels are provided.”
Thousands still monitored
Over 6,400 South African citizens have registered with DIRCO’s Travel Smart system, allowing authorities to track those in the region. Ministry spokesperson Chripin Phiri confirmed the numbers but deferred questions about those still stranded to Deputy Director-General Clayson Monyela, who had not responded.
Escalating conflict drives urgency
The urgency comes as the conflict spirals. On Sunday morning, US President Donald Trump signalled a major expansion of military operations on Iran, demanding an “unconditional surrender” and threatening “complete destruction” of groups and areas previously untouched.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian rejected these demands, calling them unrealistic and reaffirming Iran’s commitment to defend its sovereignty.
According to the Iranian health ministry, the ongoing airstrikes have claimed over 1,332 lives, including around 200 children, illustrating the human cost behind the geopolitical headlines.
What this means for South Africans
For travellers, the situation underscores the importance of preparedness during international crises. Social media has become a lifeline, allowing those in the region to share flight updates, safety tips, and warnings. For many returning, the relief is palpable, but for those still stranded, uncertainty and disruption continue to weigh heavily.
DIRCO continues to coordinate with airlines and foreign governments, urging citizens to act quickly to secure flights home as tensions show no signs of abating.
{Source: IOL}
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