Due to the uncertainty and risks posed by the ongoing conflict, the Government of Uganda advised all Ugandan citizens to suspend travel to the Middle East following the escalating situation in Iran.
“Due to the extremely fluid situation that is affecting international travel, all Ugandan citizens are strongly advised to suspend travel to the Middle East until further notice,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs advised.
On Saturday, Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in joint military strikes by the United States and Israel, a major escalation that has triggered unrest in Iran and increased tensions across the Middle East.
In an urgent advisory issued by the Permanent Secretary, Vincent Bagiire Waiswa, said the government is closely monitoring the evolving security situation in Iran and the wider Middle East.
“The Government of Uganda is closely monitoring the evolving situation in the Middle East with grave concern,” Bagiire said in the statement.
He urged all parties involved in the conflict to exercise restraint, prioritize dialogue, and avoid further escalation that could endanger civilians.
Bagiire advised all Ugandan citizens currently in Iran to take serious precautions for their safety and leave the country through any available means where possible.
“In light of the escalating security situation, all Ugandan citizens in the territory of Iran who can are advised to take serious precautions for their safety and leave Iran through any possible means,” he stated.
The government has also taken the decision to withdraw all non-essential staff from the Ugandan Embassy in Tehran to ensure their safety. As a result, consular services have been severely limited as alternative arrangements are being put in place.
Ugandans who remain in Iran have been urged to inform community leaders of their whereabouts, stay indoors, and closely monitor local and international media for updates.
The Ministry warned that information about possible evacuations will remain limited due to the highly fluid security situation and disruptions to international travel.
Bagiire emphasized that the safety and well-being of Ugandan citizens abroad remains a top priority, adding that the government will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.
