Somali Citizen Injured in Israeli Airstrike Evacuated from Iran to Turkey

By A. Yusuf

Ankara, Turkey — June 19, 2025—The Embassy of the Federal Republic of Somalia in Ankara has confirmed the successful evacuation of a Somali national, Dr. Mustafa Ali Mo’alum, who was slightly injured during an Israeli airstrike in Tehran, Iran. He was safely transported across the Iranian border into Turkey in a carefully coordinated operation led by Somali diplomats.

Dr. Mustafa, a young Somali medical student, had been studying in Iran as part of a group of Somali youth—estimated to number in the dozens—pursuing higher education in Iranian universities. He was injured when Israeli forces launched a targeted air raid on Tehran, part of the escalating tensions in the region. Fortunately, his injuries were minor.

The Somali Embassy in Turkey noted that this evacuation is part of a broader initiative aimed at protecting Somali citizens in Iran, particularly those who feel threatened by the ongoing conflict. In recent days, embassy staff have been working tirelessly to identify and assist Somalis wishing to leave the country due to growing insecurity.

In a statement released today, the embassy expressed deep gratitude to the Government of Turkey for its support and cooperation, which played a key role in ensuring Dr. Mustafa’s safe entry into Turkish territory.

 From there, arrangements are being made for him to return home to Somalia.

As the security situation in Iran continues to deteriorate, the Somali Embassy is calling on all Somali nationals currently residing there to get in touch if they wish to leave. The embassy has pledged to provide assistance and facilitate a safe evacuation process for those affected.

To support this effort, Somali citizens in Iran are encouraged to contact the embassy directly via the dedicated emergency line: +90 534 593 3990.

This life-saving mission by Somali diplomats has been widely praised by the Somali community, both in Turkey and abroad. Many have expressed joy and appreciation for the embassy’s swift and effective response, which they say reflects a strong commitment to the protection and wellbeing of Somali nationals living in conflict zones.

The evacuation of Dr. Mustafa serves as a reminder of the vital role embassies can play in safeguarding their citizens overseas, especially in times of crisis.