As Israel’s airspace remains closed in light of the escalating conflict with Iran, the national airline El Al has secured approval to launch flights aimed at repatriating stranded citizens from select European cities.
Israeli Airline Mobilizes to Rescue Stranded Citizens Amid Ongoing Conflict with Iran
Israeli Airline Mobilizes to Rescue Stranded Citizens Amid Ongoing Conflict with Iran
El Al's initiative brings hope to thousands of Israelis stuck abroad due to the volatile situation.
El Al, the national airline of Israel, has announced plans to initiate recovery flights for approximately 100,000 to 150,000 Israelis currently stranded abroad, as the country’s airspace has been closed for commercial flights amidst escalating military conflict with Iran. The airline confirmed it would begin repatriation efforts starting Wednesday, focusing on Israeli travelers originating from Larnaca, Athens, Rome, Milan, and Paris due to the ongoing crisis which has now entered its fifth day.
An official statement from El Al revealed that the flights sold out shortly after becoming available. The selection for passengers on these flights prioritizes individuals based on the original cancellation dates of their flights along with urgent medical needs. Regular scheduled flights by El Al are suspended until at least Monday, complicating exit plans for Israeli citizens and visitors.
The Israeli National Security Council has issued warnings against land travel back into Israel through neighboring Jordan or Egypt due to heightened security concerns. The complexity of the situation leaves many travelers uncertain when they will return from abroad, further complicated by ongoing strikes that have led to rising civilian casualties—24 confirmed dead and around 600 injured in Israel, while over 200 fatalities and 1,400 injuries have been reported in Iran following Israeli air strikes.
In addition to air travel, Israeli tourists are also exploring alternatives; some will return via a cruise ship operated by Mano Maritime from Cyprus. The first voyage, capable of transporting 2,000 passengers, is coordinated with Israel’s transportation ministry and is set to depart on Thursday from Limassol. Despite these efforts, the ongoing conflict leaves many travelers contemplating the viability of returning home amid the escalating violence.
Correspondent Jenny Gross has been covering breaking developments in the region and the implications of this international situation.
