Zimbabwean nationals in Middle East safe

The Government of Zimbabwe has assured the public that Zimbabwean nationals who reached out to the country's diplomatic missions amid escalating tensions in the Middle East are safe and accounted for.

The reassurance comes after several nationals were reportedly caught up in travel disruptions triggered by the recent military confrontations between Iran and Israel, which intensified following US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites. The escalating conflict raised fears of a wider regional war.

US President Donald Trump announced a tentative ceasefire on Monday, though uncertainty remains over the stability of the situation.

In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade said it was closely monitoring developments and confirmed that those Zimbabweans who contacted embassies in affected countries have been accounted for.

"We wish to advise the public that, in line with our mandate under section 35(3) of the Constitution, which provides that all Zimbabwean citizens are entitled to rights and protection by the State wherever they may be, those who contacted our embassies in the affected countries have been confirmed safe," ministry spokesperson Philisiwe Chidawanyika said.

While the statement did not specify the exact countries involved, it assured that contingency plans remain in place to support Zimbabweans abroad who may find themselves in distress.

"The government of Zimbabwe remains committed to the protection of its citizens living abroad through offering consular services, as well as facilitating repatriation and evacuation in distress situations," Chidawanyika added.

The ministry urged Zimbabwean citizens traveling or residing outside the country to register with the nearest Zimbabwean embassy or consulate to enable effective communication and timely assistance during emergencies.

"Zimbabwean citizens are encouraged to register their presence in a foreign country with the nearest embassy of Zimbabwe to facilitate communication and enable the government to provide the necessary services," she said.

The Middle East remains volatile, with several countries issuing security alerts due to the ongoing military and political upheavals.

Since October 7, 2023, the conflict has claimed tens of thousands of lives. Israeli armed forces have reportedly killed over 40,000 Palestinians, predominantly women and children, following a Hamas attack in southern Israel that killed nearly 1,200 Israelis and resulted in hundreds of hostage-taking.

International bodies and various nations have accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government of genocide and crimes against humanity amid the intense military campaign.

The Zimbabwean government pledged to continue providing updates as the situation evolves, reaffirming its commitment to the safety and welfare of its nationals overseas.