Israel Repatriates Citizens Amid Iran Conflict, 150,000 Stranded Abroad

Israel has initiated emergency measures to repatriate tens of thousands of its citizens stranded abroad due to the ongoing conflict with Iran. The government has deployed urgent flights and ferries to bring back these individuals, with the first flight arriving at Ben Gurion Airport from Cyprus on Wednesday. Many citizens traveled to Cyprus from various countries to secure their return to Israel. The Transportation Minister has confirmed that two cruise ships have been chartered to facilitate the return of Israelis from Cyprus.

The conflict, which escalated last Friday with a surprise attack on Iranian nuclear and military targets, left up to 150,000 Israeli citizens abroad. Currently, around 2,500 people are returning by air daily, with a similar number using sea routes. At this pace, the repatriation process could take several weeks. Online ticket sales for these flights were sold out within minutes on Tuesday.

The government has implemented capacity restrictions on flights due to safety concerns, fearing potential missile attacks. Most of Israel's civilian aircraft have been deployed overseas, with only a limited resumption of daytime flights when the risk of air travel decreases. Ben Gurion Airport near Tel Aviv and a smaller operational airport in the northern city of Haifa remain potential targets for Iran.

To avoid overcrowding, Israel has banned its citizens from leaving the country by air, except for medical emergencies or family crises. Land routes through neighboring Jordan or Egypt are available, but Israel has issued terror risk warnings for these routes. Private yacht owners are offering transportation services between Cyprus and Israel, with a typical 30-hour journey costing around 1,000 dollars.

In a press conference, the Transportation Minister addressed the concerns of those still abroad, reassuring them that there is no need to panic. The Minister acknowledged the difficulty of the situation but urged those still abroad to remain calm and safe. The government is working diligently to ensure the safe return of all its citizens.

This repatriation effort highlights the significant impact of the conflict on Israeli citizens, many of whom were caught off guard by the sudden escalation. The government's response, while challenging, demonstrates a commitment to the safety and well-being of its people. The use of both air and sea routes, along with the chartering of cruise ships, shows a comprehensive approach to managing the crisis.

The situation remains fluid, with ongoing efforts to mitigate risks and ensure the safe return of all stranded citizens. The government's measures, including the ban on non-essential air travel and the issuance of terror risk warnings, reflect the seriousness of the threat posed by the conflict. As the repatriation process continues, the focus will be on maintaining safety and efficiency, with the ultimate goal of bringing all citizens back home.