42 Ugandans safely evacuated from Iran amidst conflict with Israel, evacuation efforts ongoing
The evacuation was meticulously managed by the Uganda Embassy in Tehran, demonstrating the government’s commitment to the safety and well-being of its citizens abroad.
In a swift and coordinated effort, the Ugandan government has successfully evacuated 42 Ugandan nationals, including students and two diplomatic staff, from Iran following the recent outbreak of conflict between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the State of Israel on June 13th, 2025.
The evacuation was meticulously managed by the Uganda Embassy in Tehran, demonstrating the government’s commitment to the safety and well-being of its citizens abroad.
Recognizing the escalating tensions, the Embassy established an emergency evacuation coordination center in neighboring Turkey.
This strategic move, in cooperation with the Embassy in Ankara and under the guidance of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Headquarters, allowed for the efficient registration of Ugandans residing in Iran and the swift arrangement of land transport for their safe passage.
A crucial element of the evacuation plan involved securing visas on arrival from the Republic of Turkey. This critical step streamlined the process and enabled the emergency evacuation of the affected Ugandans through Turkish territory.
The Emergency Evacuation Coordination Centre is overseen by Amb. Twaha Matata, Charge d’Affaires a.i of the Uganda Embassy Tehran, assisted by Mr. Oscar J. Edule, Minister Counsellor, and Mr. Agaba Mark, Financial Attaché. The center remains operational and dedicated to the repatriation of all Ugandan nationals currently in Iran.
On Wednesday, June 18th, the evacuated nationals were received at the Bargarzan border by a dedicated team comprising Mr. Julius Malinga, Second Secretary of the Uganda Embassy in Tehran, Ms. Zainah Nabirye, also from the Tehran Embassy, and Mr. Mubarak Daka from the Uganda Embassy in Ankara.
The evacuees are currently being transferred to Istanbul, from where they are expected to be flown back to Uganda on a commercially chartered aircraft.
While this initial evacuation marks a significant achievement, the Ugandan government remains committed to ensuring the safe return of all citizens. Registration and coordination efforts are ongoing for other Ugandan nationals still within Iran.
The government is actively working to guide, support, and ensure their safe exit and return to Uganda.
In light of these ongoing efforts, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is urging relatives of Ugandans still in Iran, and anyone with relevant information, to contact the following officers:
- Amb. Matat Twaha, CDA a.i: +256772594096
- Mr. Edule Oscar, Minister Counsellor: +256702020277
- Mr. Julius Malinga, Second Secretary: +256782572879
Information can also be sent via email to tehran@mofa.go.ug.
