Iran embassy mourns Khamenei, vows to rescue stranded South Africans

The Iranian flag is seen flying over a street in Tehran, Iran.

The Iranian embassy in South Africa says it is mourning the death of Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali-Khamenei, who was killed in a joint US-Israeli military strike.

The embassy has also committed to working together with the Department of International Relations and Cooperation to assist South Africans in Iran.

Iran’s ambassador to South Africa, Seyed Mostafa Daryabari, says Tehran will continue with the legacy of Ali-Khamenei of fighting for the country. The ambassador added that they are concerned about South Africans stuck in Iran.

“In the midst of this turmoil, we are deeply concerned about South African citizens who have found themselves in an unfortunate situation between these forces. Their safety is a priority, and we are in direct communication with our officials in Iran to ensure their safe return”.

ALERT | Important information for South African citizens currently in the Middle East region.

In the event that you find yourself in distress, please contact the SA Embassy/Consulate in the country of your residence. Visit #MiddleEast #ConsularService pic.twitter.com/xlVEbb1xqR

— DIRCO South Africa (@DIRCO_ZA) March 1, 2026