International Relations and Cooperation issues advisory for South Africans in Jordan and Iraq

Advisory to South African expatriates, citizens and residents living in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and the Republic of Iraq

The Embassy of the Republic of South Africa wishes to urge all its citizens currently in Jordan and Iraq to contact the Embassy in Amman to ensure that they are formally registered at the Embassy of the Republic of South Africa, and that their whereabouts are known to the Embassy.
The registration is important as it allows the Embassy to better assist and support the South African Community in Jordan and Iraq.

It is important to note that South Africa's support in the country is limited and that it could be assumed that no face-to-face consular assistance will be possible in an emergency and the South African Government may not be able to help you if you get into difficulty, depending on your location.

Therefore, citizens are further encouraged to assess their own safety and security and act accordingly.

The South African Embassy in Amman is closely monitoring developments in the region and is awaiting a detailed briefing from the Government of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. We recognise that that the situation is evolving and that security dynamics may change with limited notice.
In coordination with the relevant Jordanian authorities, the South African Embassy in Amman remains committed to provide possible assistance and facilitating requests for the evacuation of South African nationals through the territories of the Kingdom of Jordan.

To organise this process, the local authorities in Jordan, emphasised that nationals
obtain the Jordanian electronic visa before arrival at the border crossings, in order to avoid congestion and delays in entry procedures into the Kingdom.

The requirements to ensure the safe and smooth conduct of evacuations, the following needs to be provided to the South African Embassy, by South African nationals, before the Jordan border crossings:

• Full name;
• Passport number;
• Clear copy of passport;
• The possibility of using the Sheikh Hussein Bridge (northern crossing). King Hussein Bridge, or Wadi Araba Crossing (southern crossing), for evacuation.

For enquiries, please contact the Embassy at the following contact numbers:
Duty Mobile: +962 79 552 0245
Corporate Service Manager - Mr S. Casale: +962 79 879 7938
Third Secretary: Administration and Consular - Ms L.A. Nyakonda +962 79 732 4985
Email Addresses: [email protected][email protected]
[email protected]

Helpline of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation in Pretoria, RSA: Telephone: +27 12 351 1000

The web page of DIRCO may be consulted for further contact information (www.dirco.gov.za).

At this stage, and in line with standard precautionary measures, we advise South
African nationals to take the following steps to ensure their safety and preparedness:
1. General Safety Recommendations

 Limit Non-Essential Movement: Reduce unnecessary travel and remain in familiar areas wherever possible.
 Exercise Caution in Public Spaces: While there is no cause for alarm, we advise avoiding crowded areas and large gatherings as a routine safety measure.
 Stay Alert to Your Surroundings: Where practical, remain indoors and maintain a reasonable distance from windows and open public-facing areas.
 Avoid Military or Restricted Zones: Refrain from entering areas with active security or military operations in accordance with Jordanian regulations.
 Remain Within Civilian Neighbourhoods: Staying within residential areas helps reduce exposure to sensitive locations.

2. Ensure Emergency Preparedness

Please ensure the following steps are up to date:
 Keep passports, South African IDs, visas, and residency permits valid and readily accessible.
 Maintain an emergency "grab-and-go" kit with essential items such as:
o Important documents
o Medication and prescriptions
o Basic first aid items
o Chargers and essential electronics
o Establish a family and community communication plan in case of mobile network or internet disruptions.

3. Embassy Monitoring and Updates

Locaål authorities are actively implementing measures to maintain public safety, and we remain confident in their ongoing efforts.
We kindly request that South African nationals remain vigilant in monitoring official Embassy communications and mobile alerts issued by the local authorities, and
adhere to the guidance provided.

4. Security Measures

Public Security Issues Advice and Guidelines for Citizens

First: Regarding Sirens

• Sirens will sound as needed until 1:00 AM.
• Any changes to the siren schedule will be announced.
• The siren will sound as follows: three consecutive sirens indicate a threat, and one siren indicates the threat has passed.
• Upon hearing all three sirens, it is advised to remain where you are and not move. If you are outside, take shelter in the nearest building until the threat has passed.
• It is essential to stay away from windows and open areas, and to stay near concrete staircases if available. Second: In the event of a fall of a strange or explosive object:
• Do not approach any strange, suspicious, or fallen object. Keep as far away from it as possible and refrain from handling it carelessly, as it may contain highly dangerous explosive materials.
• Do not gather around the object and allow the relevant authorities to handle it.
• Do not touch, move, or attempt to open any object of unknown origin or shape, as it is a real danger.
• Immediately report any sightings related to the fall of strange objects, drones, or missiles, or in the event of injuries or damage - by
  calling the unified emergency number (911).
• Educate family members, especially children, about not approaching or tampering with any unknown objects and the necessity of reporting them immediately.
• Do not spread rumors or publish unverified images and videos on social media. Obtain information only from official and accredited sources.

The Public Security Directorate emphasised that adhering to these
guidelines contributes to protecting lives and property and enables the relevant authorities to perform their duties efficiently and quickly.

5. Rapidly Evolving Situation

Considering the rapidly evolving circumstances, we strongly recommend staying informed by diligently following reputable media outlets for the latest updates.

Your safety remains our highest priority. Further information will be shared as soon as it becomes available.

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