Tanzania has successfully begun the evacuation of its citizens stranded in conflict-hit Israel and Iran, following orders from President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
The first group, comprising 42 Tanzanians and their dependents, landed at Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam on Wednesday after a three-day journey from Israel. Many among the returnees were students, including Neema Dashina, a medical student in Jerusalem, who expressed gratitude to the government: “It’s been a long journey, and we’re thankful to be home safe.”
A second evacuation flight, carrying Tanzanians living in Iran, was expected to arrive via the United Arab Emirates early Thursday morning, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The evacuation was prompted by the recent military confrontation between Israel and Iran that erupted on June 13, leading to the closure of both countries’ airspaces and leaving foreign nationals—including Tanzanians—unable to leave.
Tanzania’s Foreign Ministry earlier confirmed that over 200 citizens were in Israel, including embassy staff, while around 168 Tanzanians in Iran—mostly students—had registered with authorities.
Though no injuries or casualties among Tanzanians have been reported so far, officials say they continue to monitor the situation closely.
The conflict began after Israel launched airstrikes on Iranian military and nuclear sites, triggering retaliatory missile attacks from Tehran. While both sides have claimed victory, the humanitarian consequences have been significant, with global concerns growing over the safety of civilians and foreigners in the region.
The government shared footage of the first group’s arrival on its official social media, emphasizing its ongoing commitment to protecting Tanzanian citizens abroad during times of crisis.