Tension is rising sharply in the Middle East after new military exchanges waged on Iran by the United States and Israel, sending shockwaves across global markets.
The situation has forced governments, including Namibia, to move swiftly to protect their citizens.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Namibian Embassy in Egypt assured all Namibian citizens living in, transiting through or travelling within the affected region that their safety and well-being remain a top priority.
“The embassy has not received reports of any Namibian nationals directly affected in the impacted areas. Nevertheless, all Namibians in the region are strongly encouraged to exercise heightened caution and remain vigilant,” the statement said.
The embassy advised citizens to closely follow local news and official advisories.
“Avoid high-risk areas, large gatherings and locations that may pose safety concerns. Follow instructions issued by local authorities,” it said.
The mission added that any Namibian requiring consular assistance or support should immediately contact the embassy.
The latest escalation follows days of reported strikes and counter-threats involving Iran and Israel, with the United States reinforcing its presence in the region. Iranian authorities have accused Israel of carrying out attacks on strategic sites, while Israel has said it is responding to security threats.
The situation remains fluid, with regional airspace disruptions and increased military alerts reported in several countries.
African leaders and continental bodies have called for restraint and dialogue. The chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, condemned the military escalation over the weekend and stressed the importance of respecting sovereignty and international law.
“Negotiation, not force, is the only path to lasting peace. All parties must act with restraint and return to dialogue,” he said.
In South Africa, President Cyril Ramaphosa warned that violence would only deepen instability.
“Military confrontation cannot resolve long-standing political disputes. Global partners must intensify diplomatic engagement to prevent the conflict from expanding further,” Ramaphosa said.
Botswana also confirmed that it is monitoring the situation.
Its Ministry of International Relations said the country has around 300 nationals residing in the Middle East, most of them in the United Arab Emirates and Qatar.
“Explosions and air raid sirens have been heard in those countries. Should the situation deteriorate, available media platforms will be employed for further guidance,” the ministry said.
At the global level, the Secretary General of the United Nations António Guterres warned that continued escalation risks destabilising international peace and security.
“The world cannot afford another major conflict in the Middle East. There must be an immediate cessation of offensive operations and a return to serious negotiations,” Guterres said.
As of 2 March 2026, independent news agencies Reuters and The Associated Press report that at least 551 people have been killed and 747 injured in Iran following the escalation of strikes by the United States and Israel that began over the weekend, according to official Iranian and humanitarian sources.
According to Reuters, three United States service members have also been killed and five seriously wounded – the first confirmed American combat casualties in the conflict so far.
– ljason@nepc.com.na