Freetown, June 18, 2025 — Government of Sierra Leone has confirmed the evacuation of all its diplomatic staff and citizens from Tehran, the capital of the Islamic Republic of Iran, citing heightened security risks linked to the escalating conflict between Iran and Israel.
The decision comes in the wake of renewed military strikes exchanged by both countries on Sunday, which have resulted in civilian casualties and growing fears of a broader regional escalation. Both Iran and Israel have issued public warnings, urging civilians to take protective measures amid expectations of continued hostilities.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said 36 individuals, comprising embassy personnel and Sierra Leonean students, were safely evacuated from Iran and have since arrived in neighboring Armenia.
The Ministry described the move as the result of a “careful assessment” of the evolving security situation in Iran. While it did not elaborate on specific threats faced by its nationals, the government emphasized that the evacuation was a precautionary measure aimed at ensuring their safety.
To ensure continuity of consular services and diplomatic functions, a temporary task team has been deployed to Armenia. This team, drawn from the relocated embassy staff, will oversee residual administrative duties and continue monitoring developments on the ground in Iran.
