Nearly 2,000 Dominicans reside in the Middle East amidst tensions between Israel and Iran

Around 2,000 Dominicans currently live in Middle Eastern countries, according to data from the Institute of Dominicans Abroad (Index). The largest concentration is in the United Arab Emirates, with 1,199 nationals, followed by Qatar (294), Oman (192), and Turkey (154). 134 Dominicans reside in Israel and 24 in Saudi Arabia.

Amid the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, Dominicans remaining in Israeli territory are mostly staying out of areas considered strategic targets.

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According to available information, during alerts, you must take shelter in bunkers and strictly follow the guidelines of the local authorities. In addition, the airport remains closed and it has been recommended to avoid travel to risk areas. The Dominican community in that region works mainly in sectors such as medicine, architecture, hospitality, and commerce. Faced with the activation of alerts, many have temporarily suspended their work and are choosing to stay in their residences. The Vice President of the Republic, Raquel Peña, assured that the Government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is constantly monitoring the situation of diplomatic personnel and Dominicans in the area, guaranteeing the corresponding protection. Regarding a possible evacuation, the official indicated that any decision will be officially communicated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the entity responsible for informing about measures related to the diplomatic corps.

Context of the conflict

The current escalation began after bombings attributed to US and Israeli forces against Iranian territory. In the following days, attacks were reported in Tehran and drone launches towards targets in Gulf countries, in a scenario that keeps the international community on alert.