Considering that the ongoing conflict between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the state of Israel and United States coalition has posed a threat to South African citizens in the Middle East and the Gulf, what plan has his department develo

Considering that the ongoing conflict between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the state of Israel and United States coalition has posed a threat to South African citizens in the Middle East and the G is a municipal publication record extracted as a standalone document candidate. It is classed as `plan` based on the available title and body cues. The extract references the year(s): 2025, 2026. Opening text includes: “Question to the Minister of International Relations - NW1029 | PMG Toggle navigation Committees and Meetings MPs Bills Petitions Questions and Replies Calls for Comments Attendance Blog Provincial Legislatures Committees and Meetings MPs Bills Petitions Questions and Replies Calls for Comments Attendance Blog Provincial Legislatures Create an account Log In Create an account Log In Search Committees and Meetings MPs Bills Petitions Questions and Replies Calls for Comments Attendance Blog Provincial Legislatures Premium content from before 2025 is now available for everyone! Questions and Replies National Assembly International Relations Minister of International Relations Question NW1029 to the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Share this page: 20 March 2026 - NW1029 Thambo, Mr S to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Considering that the ongoing conflict between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the state of Israel and United States coalition has posed a threat to South African citizens in the Middle East and the Gulf, what plan has his department developed to prepare for possible evacuation of South African citizens? Source Link Reply: The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) continuously monitors the security situation in the Middle East and the Gulf region through its missions on the ground, in close coordination with host governments and international partners. As part of its standing consular responsibility, the Department has contingency plans in place to respond to a potential deterioration in the security environment that may affect South African citizens abroad. These plans are country-specific and are regularly reviewed and updated in line with evolving risk assessments. Key elements of the Department s preparedness include: Consular Preparedness and Monitoring: South African missions in the affected region maintain updated registers and especially through the TravelSmart app of South African citizens who have made contact with the missions, and continue to encourage citizens to voluntarily register and keep their details current. Coordination Mechanisms: DIRCO works closely with relevant South African departments, including the Department of Defence, as well as with host authorities and international partners, to assess feasible options should an evacuation or assisted departure become necessary. Communication with Citizens: The Department uses multiple communication platforms to provide South African citizens with guidance on personal safety, travel arrangements, and points of contact at South African missions. Assisted Departure Planning: Where circumstances may require, the Department considers a range of measures, including facilitated commercial departures or coordinated evacuation support, subject to the security situation, logistical feasibility, and applicable international and domestic legal frameworks. South African citizens in the Middle East and Gulf region”.