As tensions between Iran and Israel continue to escalate, the Somali government is calling on its nationals in Iran to consider evacuating the country. The Somali Embassy in Turkiye has issued an official advisory urging Somalis in Iran to contact the embassy if they wish to return home safely.
In a statement published via Facebook, the embassy said:
“The Embassy of the Federal Republic of Somalia in Turkiye informs Somali citizens in Iran who wish to leave the country due to the ongoing fighting there to contact the embassy for assistance in returning to their country safely. Mobile Number: +90 534 593 3990.”
The advisory comes amid intensifying Israeli airstrikes on Iranian territory, which have reportedly targeted civilian buildings, hospitals, weapons factories, and government facilities. The growing insecurity has heightened fears among the small Somali diaspora in Iran—estimated at fewer than 20 individuals, mainly students and entrepreneurs.
A Community on Edge
Ahmed Mahmoud Abdi, a Somali businessman residing in Iran, described an increasingly tense atmosphere in cities across the country. “People are feeling the pressure,” he told Somali Media. “Unlike places where people flee immediately, here they stay—but you can see the fear on their faces.”
Ahmed reported that one Somali medical student at Tehran University was injured during a recent Israeli strike. “He suffered a head injury but is in stable condition. He had plans to travel to Azerbaijan, though we don’t know his status now.”
In recent days, members of the Somali community in Iran have convened informal meetings to discuss their options. According to Ahmed, some are considering relocation—either back to Somalia or to a safer third country. “People are exhausted. We’re not part of this war, but we are caught in it.”
Somalia Responds
The Somali Embassy’s call for coordination and evacuation reflects growing concern in Mogadishu over the safety of Somali citizens in conflict zones. The embassy in Ankara—Somalia’s nearest diplomatic representation to Iran—is acting as the main point of contact for Somalis seeking assistance.
This is not the first time Somali nationals have found themselves trapped by regional conflict. Similar emergency appeals were issued during previous crises in Libya, Sudan, and Yemen.
Regional Escalation Continues
Since early June, Israeli airstrikes have reportedly killed over 220 people in Iran. In response, Iran has launched hundreds of missiles and drones at Israel, killing at least two dozen civilians. The conflict is further compounded by Israel’s ongoing military operations in Gaza, where violence against civilians continues to draw global condemnation.
The Somali community, though small, remains especially vulnerable. Most are unable to afford emergency visas or flights, and others are undocumented due to expired permits.
“Without external help, we have no way out,” said Amjad, a young Somali designer living in Tehran. “I regret leaving my country, but now I cannot return either. I just want to be somewhere safe.”
If you are a Somali national in Iran and wish to return home, you can contact the Somali Embassy in Turkiye at +90 534 593 3990.