First Batch of stranded Israelis return home amid ongoing Iran-Israel conflict

The Israeli military has confirmed the safe arrival of the first passenger ship transporting stranded Israeli citizens back to the country following the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel.

The vessel, which carried over 1,500 nationals, docked at the Ashdod Port on Friday after departing from the Port of Limassol in Cyprus.

According to a statement from the Israeli military, the boat’s journey was secured by an Israeli Navy missile boat to ensure the safety of passengers amid heightened tensions in the region. This operation, tagged ‘Safe Return’, is part of the Israeli Ministry of Transportation’s emergency plan to evacuate citizens trapped abroad due to war-related airspace closures.

Following Israel’s initial airstrikes on Iran last Friday, airports in Israel were shut, leading to the cancellation of outbound flights and leaving an estimated 100,000 to 150,000 Israelis stranded overseas, according to figures from the transport ministry.

Israeli Transport Minister Miri Regev disclosed that approximately 5,000 citizens had returned by air on Wednesday and Thursday. She added that efforts would be doubled on Friday to facilitate the safe return of more nationals.

National carrier El Al also confirmed it had begun operating special “recovery flights” from Europe, the United States, and Thailand to assist with the evacuation effort.