Israel begins repatriating citizens stranded abroad

Israel has launched an airlift to bring home citizens left stranded overseas following its surprise military strike on Iran.

The operation began on Wednesday, with the first repatriation flight landing at Ben Gurion Airport from Larnaca, Cyprus, marking the start of a phased return plan.

According to Israel’s transport ministry, more than 50,000 nationals are currently waiting to return.

National airline El Al is leading the effort, with additional flights scheduled from cities including Athens, Rome, Milan and Paris. Private carriers Arkia and Israir are also contributing to the repatriation mission.

Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport has remained shut to outbound and inbound passenger flights since the Israeli attack was launched last Friday on Iran.