By Forum staff writer
The Government of Sierra Leone has successfully evacuated twenty four Sierra Leonean nationals and embassy staff from the Islamic Republic of Iran following the recent escalation of military strikes and retaliatory actions in the Middle East.
According to a press release issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the evacuation was carried out as part of emergency measures activated in response to the rapidly evolving security situation in the region. All evacuees have been safely relocated to the Republic of Armenia.
The group evacuated from Iran includes fourteen students, one private citizen, three Sierra Leonean diplomats and six locally recruited staff of the Sierra Leone Embassy in Tehran. The government described the operation as a precautionary step aimed at ensuring the safety and welfare of its citizens and diplomatic personnel.
The Ministry noted that emergency protocols were promptly activated once the security situation began to deteriorate. These measures form part of the government’s broader commitment to protecting Sierra Leoneans living and working abroad, particularly in areas affected by conflict or instability.
In addition to the evacuation from Iran, the government provided updates on the safety of Sierra Leoneans residing in other Middle Eastern countries. Sierra Leonean citizens living in Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Kuwait, Bahrain and Israel are reported to be safe at this time, based on information received from Sierra Leone’s diplomatic missions in those countries.
The government stated that it continues to closely monitor developments across the Middle East and remains actively engaged through its diplomatic missions to respond swiftly should the need arise. Officials emphasized that the situation remains fluid and could change at any time.
Given the current security environment, the government has strongly advised all Sierra Leoneans in affected areas to strictly comply with local safety directives, including curfews and emergency procedures issued by host authorities. Citizens have also been encouraged to remain in regular contact with their families and with Sierra Leone’s diplomatic missions for updates and assistance.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation reassured the public that the safety and welfare of Sierra Leonean citizens remain a top priority. It pledged to continue providing timely updates as the situation develops and to take further action if necessary to protect Sierra Leoneans abroad.
The press release concluded by urging citizens to stay calm, vigilant and cooperative, while reaffirming the government’s commitment to safeguarding the lives and interests of Sierra Leoneans wherever they may be.
For further information or assistance, the public has been advised to contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation through its designated emergency contact line.
