Government has urged Zambian nationals living in or visiting the Gulf region to exercise heightened caution following ongoing security incidents in parts of the Middle East.
In a travel and security advisory issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, citizens have been advised to remain vigilant and strictly follow safety guidelines issued by local authorities as the situation continues to evolve.
The Ministry has called on Zambians in affected areas to stay indoors, avoid travelling near military installations or key government infrastructure, and postpone non essential travel until stability is restored.
“Zambian nationals in the affected areas are strongly urged to remain vigilant, stay indoors and avoid all travel near military installations or key government infrastructure,” the Ministry said.
Citizens have also been directed to maintain regular contact with the nearest Zambian diplomatic mission for registration and possible assistance. They have further been advised to ensure that their travel documents and those of their family members are valid and readily accessible.
The advisory instructs nationals to immediately move to designated protected spaces such as shelters or reinforced rooms upon hearing sirens or receiving alerts from local emergency authorities, and to remain there until the threat has fully passed.
“Strictly follow real time instructions and alerts published by local authorities and do not attempt to move between buildings until the threat has passed,” the Ministry added.
Travellers have meanwhile been cautioned against going to airports without first confirming flight operations with their airlines, as some parts of the region have experienced temporary partial airspace closures.
The Ministry said government, through its diplomatic missions accredited to countries in the Gulf region, is closely monitoring developments and engaging relevant authorities to provide timely updates.
It reaffirmed its commitment to the protection and welfare of Zambian citizens abroad, stating that further guidance, including possible evacuation procedures, will be communicated should the security situation deteriorate.
