On June 17, 2025, El Al Airlines announced it would begin recovery flights for thousands of Israelis stranded outside the country due to ongoing military conflicts with Iran. The airline, with government approval, will operate flights from key European cities, including Athens, Rome, Milan, Paris, and Larnaca, starting Wednesday.
Israeli Airline Facilitates Return of Stranded Citizens Amid Ongoing Conflict
Israeli Airline Facilitates Return of Stranded Citizens Amid Ongoing Conflict
El Al receives government clearance to operate recovery flights for approximately 150,000 Israelis stuck abroad as fighting with Iran continues.
El Al's statement indicated that the flights, already fully booked, will prioritize urgent cases and those affected by earlier flight cancellations. The closure of Israeli airspace since Friday has left between 100,000 to 150,000 travelers in limbo, unable to return home as commercial flights remain suspended until at least Monday.
The National Security Council has advised against crossing borders into Jordan or Egypt, citing safety concerns. Meanwhile, some travelers may opt to return via a cruise operated by Mano Maritime from Cyprus, capable of carrying 2,000 passengers on a 16-hour journey back to Israel.
The situation escalates with rising casualties reported on both sides, as Iran suffers heavy losses with over 200 fatalities and 1,400 injuries linked to Israeli strikes. As further military engagements loom, many Israelis abroad are weighing their options amidst the unrest.
The National Security Council has advised against crossing borders into Jordan or Egypt, citing safety concerns. Meanwhile, some travelers may opt to return via a cruise operated by Mano Maritime from Cyprus, capable of carrying 2,000 passengers on a 16-hour journey back to Israel.
The situation escalates with rising casualties reported on both sides, as Iran suffers heavy losses with over 200 fatalities and 1,400 injuries linked to Israeli strikes. As further military engagements loom, many Israelis abroad are weighing their options amidst the unrest.
