Israel begins phased airlift to repatriate citizens stranded overseas

DDM News

Israel has commenced a massive airlift to repatriate thousands of its citizens stranded overseas, following its recent military offensive against Iran.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports that the operation began on Wednesday, with the first rescue flight touching down at Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv from Larnaca, Cyprus.

The flight, operated by Israel’s national carrier El Al, marks the start of “Operation Safe Return,” aimed at bringing home tens of thousands of Israeli nationals affected by the sudden conflict escalation.

Transportation Minister Miri Regev addressed the flight crew before landing, describing the event as a “highly emotional moment” for the nation.

Authorities estimate that over 50,000 Israeli citizens are currently seeking immediate return. Additional flights have been scheduled from Athens, Rome, Milan, and Paris.

In a coordinated effort, Israeli airlines Arkia and Israir are also involved in the repatriation process.

Ben Gurion Airport remains closed to outbound passengers since the launch of Israel’s airstrikes on Friday. The attacks triggered severe retaliation, with Iran firing over 400 ballistic missiles toward Israel, particularly targeting the Tel Aviv region.

At least 24 people have died as a result of the Iranian missile strikes, adding urgency to the ongoing repatriation mission.

To cope with the volume of returning passengers, the Airports Authority has increased staff presence and streamlined processing procedures. Arrivals are being transported to city centers by buses and trains, as family members have been advised to avoid airport pickups due to security concerns.

Officials confirmed that the airlift is being implemented in phases, with decisions guided by ongoing risk assessments to ensure maximum safety for passengers, crew, and aircraft.

Simultaneously, around 40,000 foreign tourists remain stranded within Israel, unable to leave due to suspended outbound flights. El Al has announced the cancellation of all departures through June 23.

Cyprus, Israel’s closest EU neighbor, has emerged as a crucial hub for the evacuation effort. Airport authorities in Larnaca confirmed nine flights to Haifa and four to Tel Aviv are scheduled for Wednesday alone, with an estimated 1,000 passengers expected to arrive.

Cruise operator Mano Maritime has also joined the rescue efforts. The company will deploy its ship, Crown Iris, to make two trips from Cyprus to Haifa, with capacity to carry 2,000 individuals per voyage.

Earlier, a separate cruise carrying 1,500 participants from a Jewish cultural program docked in Cyprus after leaving Israel the previous day.

As tension continues to rise in the region, Israel’s airlift strategy underscores the deepening humanitarian implications of its military confrontation with Iran.

The international community is closely monitoring the situation, with diplomatic channels working overtime to prevent further escalation.

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