The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has urged the United Nations to urgently consider and navigate options for diplomatic and peaceful solutions to the security situation in the Middle East.

Nkunyingi Muwada, Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs and also the MP for Kyadondo East Constituency, made these remarks in a press statement dated April 17, 2024, stating that the security situation in the Middle East has remained tense following the ongoing war between Iran and Israel.

“We are concerned, and we urge all sides to explore diplomatic options to avoid further escalation of conflict. We call upon the United Nations to urgently meditate and navigate options for a diplomatic and peaceful solution,” Muwada said.

He urged Ugandan citizens living in the Middle East, diplomats, and Ugandans planning trips to the region to exercise caution and adhere to the host countries’ security guidelines on a regular basis.

He also urged the government and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to implement stand-by measures to repatriate Ugandans who may be trapped in any affected countries if tensions escalate.

“In line with our alternative diplomacy, we shall keep the Ugandan public informed as we monitor global and regional developments,” he added.

On April 13, 2024, Iran carried out its first ever direct attack on Israeli territory, deploying over 3000 unmanned aerial vehicles and missiles. Since the 1979 Islamic revolution, Iran’s conflict with Israel has gradually evolved geographically and strategically.