“Trapped Beneath the Ground: Nigerians Urgently Appeal for Evacuation from Israel’s War-Torn Shelters”
Hundreds of Nigerians currently in Israel have found themselves sheltering underground after Iranian missile barrages intensified following the Israel–Iran conflict. Residents, already shaken by the attacks, are now calling on the Nigerian government for urgent help.
According to PUNCH, Nigerians caught in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem joined locals and foreigners in light rail stations and other underground facilities after sirens and missile warnings began in mid-June. Many fled to bomb shelters with their families, calling their situation a nightmare, especially since official evacuations had yet to commence .
One Nigerian in Tel Aviv, speaking to PUNCH journalists, said he and his community are sharing tight-packed bunker space. He described the Nigerian embassy as largely inactive, offering no support to those seeking to evacuate . In Jerusalem, another Nigerian noted that while his group hadn’t suffered casualties, the disruption to work and daily life was serious—many are unable to pay rent or buy food amid closed businesses .
Data from official sources suggest at least 264 fatalities—including women and children—in both countries since the conflict erupted. Iranian officials have confirmed that missile strikes in Israel have directly hit residential and critical areas in Tel Aviv, near where many Nigerians reside .
The Federal Government has announced plans to evacuate its citizens trapped in Israel and Iran. Abuja says it is coordinating with embassies, securing bus passage through Armenia, and preparing flights from Yerevan. However, evacuees say the process has been slow, and they remain stuck in shelters as danger continues .
As the Middle East enters a critical phase with fears of broader escalation, stranded Nigerians are appealing urgently for transit arrangements, diplomatic support, and safe repatriation during what they describe as one of their most terrifying experiences abroad.Global leaders continue to press for de-escalation, but with conflict still raging, pressing humanitarian efforts—including the evacuation of foreign nationals—remain vital.
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