Emergency Flights for Israelis Amid Conflict with Iran

JERUSALEM – An emergency flight operation has been initiated by the Israeli government to repatriate citizens stranded abroad due to ongoing tensions with Iran. The first flight arrived in Tel Aviv on Wednesday morning.

Approximately 100,000 to 150,000 Israelis were outside the country when Israeli Defense Forces began airstrikes on Iran, targeting the nation’s nuclear facilities and military assets.

In response to the situation, Israel swiftly closed its airspace and suspended all incoming flights. However, some individuals were determined to return home despite the risks posed by missile strikes that have caused significant destruction and loss of life. They sought out alternative travel routes.

Yaakov Katz, a former editor of the Jerusalem Post, recounted his experience trying to return from the US. He managed to get a ride on a tugboat from Cyprus after being stuck for two days. “Nine of us ended up on a boat captained by a seasoned Israeli sailor who didn’t ask any questions,” he shared.

Katz described the journey, saying, “I can’t say it was the best experience, but 17 hours was definitely doable.” He expressed his worries about being away from his wife and four kids during the conflict, stating, “It’s really tough to be apart from family at such a time.”

Others, like Simi Grossman, a volunteer with a rescue agency, echoed his sentiments. After traveling from the US to London and then to Egypt, he is now planning to cross into Israel via taxi. “We need to return to assist our fellow citizens,” he emphasized.

Many expatriates remained anxious, witnessing attacks on their homeland from afar. Josh Huntman, located in London, described the distress of seeing missiles land close to his home, saying, “It’s torture. It’s very hard to watch knowing my family is there.” He reported attacks occurring just a mile from where his family lives.

Israel’s Transport Minister, Mili Regev, assured that plans were being developed to facilitate the return of all Israeli citizens, including establishing maritime routes from Cyprus and Greece. However, travel to nearby countries like Egypt and Jordan is currently not recommended.

For Uzi Sofer, who was on a business trip in Boston, the government’s efforts came a bit late. He had hoped to return for his daughter’s wedding, which he was ultimately unable to attend. He shared, “I want to be in Israel with my family, especially during this time.”