The Government of Uganda has advised its citizens in Iran to take extra precautions and consider leaving the country through available means as security concerns intensify following reported joint airstrikes by the United States and Israel.

In a statement issued on Saturday, Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that it is closely monitoring developments in the Middle East and has taken precautionary steps to safeguard its diplomatic staff.

The ministry confirmed that non-essential personnel at Uganda’s embassy in Tehran have been withdrawn due to safety concerns. Consular services in the Iranian capital are currently operating on a limited scale as alternative arrangements are being explored.

The Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr Vincent Bagiire Waiswa, said the government is deeply concerned about the deteriorating security environment. He urged all parties involved in the conflict to exercise restraint and avoid further escalation.

He also called on Ugandans still residing in Iran to prioritise their safety by remaining indoors, keeping in close contact with community leaders, and following credible media updates. According to the ministry, information regarding possible evacuation efforts will remain restricted until the situation stabilises.

The government has further advised Ugandans to suspend travel to the Middle East until further notice, citing the rapidly changing security landscape and disruptions to international travel.
While the exact number of Ugandans living, studying, or working in Iran remains unclear, some individuals in Tehran have reportedly shared accounts and videos of the unfolding events with relatives and on social media platforms.

Reports from Iran indicate heightened anxiety among residents, with some people leaving major cities, others stocking up on essential supplies, and long queues forming at fuel stations. Explosions were reported in Tehran, with plumes of smoke visible in parts of the city at the onset of the strikes.

Israeli authorities have claimed that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed during the operation, though Iranian officials have not confirmed the claim.
As uncertainty persists, many residents have described scenes of confusion and fear, with families rushing to secure their loved ones and reassess their immediate plans amid the volatile situation.