After Israel’s unexpected military strike on Iran left tens of thousands of Israelis stranded abroad, the government started a staged airlift operation on Wednesday, bringing its citizens home.
Early on Wednesday morning, passengers from Larnaca, Cyprus, were brought home by the first rescue flight, which was run by national airline El Al, landing at Ben Gurion Airport.
Over 50,000 trapped Israelis are attempting to return home, according to Israel’s transport ministry.
According to El Al, planes for repatriation are already planned from Paris, Rome, Milan, and Athens. Israir and Arkia, two smaller competitors, are also involved in the venture.
Before the approaching El Al flight touched down, Transportation Minister Miri Regev informed the captain, “We are getting ready for the airlift to bring all Israelis home.”
