As Israel closes airspace following a sudden military offensive against Iran, thousands of Israelis find themselves unable to return home, facing uncertainty and escalating distress.
Stranded Abroad: Israeli Travelers Face Uncertain Future Following Iran Attack
Stranded Abroad: Israeli Travelers Face Uncertain Future Following Iran Attack
Tens of thousands of Israelis are left stranded overseas after Israel's surprise strike on Iran led to the closure of airspace for civilian flights.
Tens of thousands of Israelis are currently stranded abroad due to the closure of airspace after Israel launched a surprise attack on Iran early Friday morning. With civilian flights suspended, there are growing concerns as citizens, including those in popular tourist destinations, face an indefinite wait to return home. Various reports suggest that between 100,000 and 150,000 Israelis may be affected, according to Israeli officials who have not yet provided precise figures.
The situation has led to increased urgency among travelers, with many sharing their plight on social media seeking assistance. Some Israeli families are separated across different cities, with an example being a couple stuck in Barcelona searching for local accommodation.
As temporary rescue flights are authorized to begin on Monday, travelers have been advised it may take additional days before operations commence. The Israeli national security adviser, Tzachi Hanegbi, stated that maritime options are under consideration, although no decisions have been finalized so far.
Current routes to return via land borders with Jordan and Egypt have not been recommended due to rising tensions in the region. Authorities have advised citizens abroad to remain patient for updates from officials amid these escalating circumstances.
Israeli airlines have begun relocating their aircraft out of the country, further complicating matters as travel limitations previously established after the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023, have severely restricted international flights. The chaotic series of events has also left tourists within Israel grappling with the uncertainty surrounding their own travels as the broader geopolitical situation evolves.
Myra Noveck contributed reporting from Jerusalem.
Isabel Kershner, a correspondent for the Times since 1990, has been covering Israeli and Palestinian issues.
