In the wake of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's death in US-Israeli strikes, the Iranian embassy in South Africa has expressed grief and pledged cooperation with local authorities to help South Africans stranded in Iran amid regional turmoil.
Following the joint US-Israeli military strikes on February 28, 2026, that killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei—as confirmed by Iranian state media the next day—the embassy in South Africa voiced deep sorrow.
Ambassador Seyed Mostafa Daryabari emphasized Tehran's commitment to upholding Khamenei's legacy while prioritizing the safety of South African nationals caught in the conflict. "Their safety is a priority, and we are in direct communication with our officials in Iran to ensure their safe return," he said.
The embassy has promised to work with South Africa's Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) to facilitate evacuations. DIRCO issued a travel alert urging citizens in the Middle East to contact the nearest South African mission.
Middle East airspace closures have disrupted flights, stranding South Africans. The African National Congress (ANC) condemned the US-Israeli action.
