June 18, 2025, Ankara, Turkey In light of the growing military tensions between Iran and Israel, the Somali Embassy in Turkey has made an urgent call to Somali citizens living in Iran to seek evacuation assistance.
The embassy said in a public statement that was shared on its official Facebook page:
The Federal Republic of Somalia’s embassy in Turkey advises Somali nationals living in Iran who want to flee the country because of the continuing fighting there to get in touch with the embassy for help getting back safely. Email address: +90 534 593 3990.
The warning comes after a spike in Israeli attacks on Iranian soil that have allegedly targeted vital government infrastructure, hospitals, arms manufacturers, and residential areas. A small Somali population in Iran, which is primarily composed of students and merchants, is among the many foreigners who are deeply concerned about the escalating war.
People from Somalia have voiced growing concerns about their safety. Ahmed Mahmoud Abdi, a Somali businessman living in Iran, told BBC Somali that the attacks had caused disruptions to daily life and increased worry in the community.
“The pressure is being felt by people. “People are staying here, but the tension is evident, unlike other places where civilians leave right away,” he said. Ahmed further stated that one of the latest strikes harmed a Somali medical student at Tehran University.
“Despite having a head injury, he is in stable condition. We don’t know where he is right now, but he had intended to go to Azerbaijan,” Ahmed continued.
Somali citizens have started holding talks to evaluate the hazards and look into evacuation options in response to the worsening scenario. Ahmed said that attempts are being made to unite the community and choose a single, cohesive course of action.
In addition to reiterating its commitment to guaranteeing their safety and a well-coordinated return home, the embassy’s evacuation request underscores Somalia’s increased concern for its residents stranded in international conflict zones.
However, this was made feasible in large part by the efforts of Fathudin Ali Mohamed Ospite, the Federal Republic of Somalia’s ambassador to the Republic of Turkey.
In addition to his excellent work as Somalia’s ambassador to Turkey since 2004, Ambassador Fathudin Ali Mohamed Ospite has played a significant role in strengthening the two countries’ diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties. Under his direction, the Somali Embassy in Ankara keeps up its support for the Somali diaspora, advancement of common interests, and development of solid diplomatic relations founded on respect and shared values.