Israel: UK, France, US and Australia begin repatriation flights

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Amidst the escalating crisis in Israel, the UK government is launching repatriation flights for its citizens.

Various countries worldwide have been rushing to evacuate their nationals due to the rising tensions in the region.

First repatriation flights depart on Thursday

The UK’s repatriation efforts began with the departure of the first flights from Tel Aviv on Thursday. Several airlines that operate flights between the UK and Israel had previously suspended their services due to concerns over rocket attacks originating from the Gaza Strip.

UK extends support to Egypt for humanitarian reasons

Rishi Sunak, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, had earlier offered UK support to Egypt in an effort to keep the Rafah border crossing into the Gaza Strip open for humanitarian and consular reasons.

This support aimed to ensure that British nationals trapped in the besieged enclave would have a safe means of exit.

US plans repatriation flight programme from Israel

The US has also taken steps to assist its citizens in Israel.

The US State Department has announced plans to collaborate with airlines in launching a repatriation flight programme. The programme is intended to facilitate the evacuation of US citizens and their immediate family members who have encountered difficulties securing commercial transit options.

These charter flights are set to commence on Friday, October 13.

France sets up chartered flights

The French government has plans to organise additional chartered flights for the evacuation of its citizens stranded in Israel on October 13 and 14.

According to the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, priority will be given to unaccompanied minors, pregnant women, individuals with disabilities, and those facing urgent medical conditions. The government is also in close communication with Air France, the national flag carrier, to expedite the resumption of commercial flights to Israel.

Australian Prime Minister addresses repatriation flights

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia has defended the repatriation flights arranged for Australians who found themselves stranded in Israel and Gaza. His remarks come amid concerns that passengers may be left in London following their evacuation.

Albanese expressed his government’s dedication to bringing its citizens home.

He acknowledged the complex logistics of such an operation taking place during an ongoing conflict.

The first flight, organized in partnership with Qantas, was scheduled to depart from Israel to London, carrying hundreds of Australians. The prime minister revealed that this flight would be followed by another leg of the journey, flying passengers back to Australia via Singapore.

Notably, these repatriation flights are being provided free of charge to Australian citizens, reflecting the government’s commitment to their safety and well-being.

As the international community grapples with the ongoing crisis in Israel, these repatriation efforts are crucial in ensuring the safety and well-being of citizens from different nations caught up in the turmoil.

The UK, US, France, and Australia are among the countries extending their assistance to those seeking to return home during these challenging times.

Also read: Israel: Which airlines have paused or reduced operations?