By Patience Gondo
THE Government of Zimbabwe has urged its citizens to delay travelling to the Middle East as armed conflict escalates in the region.
In a statement, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade of Zimbabwe, Philisiwe Chidawanyika, said Zimbabweans planning to travel to the region should postpone their trips until the security situation stabilises.
“Zimbabweans wishing to travel to the affected region are encouraged to delay their travel until the situation is stable,” she said.
The ministry said it is closely monitoring the situation as tensions rise following military confrontations involving Israel, Iran and the United States.
The conflict intensified after coordinated air strikes targeted strategic facilities in Iran, triggering retaliatory missile and drone attacks directed at Israeli territory and United States military positions in the Gulf region.
According to Google the exchange of attacks has heightened tensions across neighbouring states including the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Bahrain, where air defence systems have intercepted incoming projectiles.
The hostilities have also spilled into Lebanon after armed groups launched rockets into Israel, prompting further Israeli air strikes in response.
The ministry said the escalating conflict has disrupted flights, trade routes and civilian movement across parts of the Middle East, increasing risks for travellers.
The Government said it remains committed to protecting Zimbabwean citizens abroad in line with constitutional provisions guaranteeing the protection of citizens wherever they may be.
Chidawanyika said zimbabweans living in or travelling within affected countries were should register with the nearest Zimbabwean embassy or consulate and comply with regulations issued by authorities in host nations.
Those requiring urgent assistance were advised to contact the ministry or Zimbabwean diplomatic missions in Abu Dhabi, Kuwait City, Riyadh and Dubai as authorities continue to monitor developments in the region.