Israel Launches Operation Safe Return to Rescue 150,000 Citizens Stranded Abroad

In the face of ongoing conflict and closed airspace, Israel’s Transportation Ministry has announced the launch of Operation "Safe Return," a massive effort to bring home up to 150,000 Israelis currently stranded around the world. The announcement was made Monday by Transportation Minister Miri Regev.

Private airlines and the Israeli shipping company Mano Maritime will be mobilized for the rescue operation, utilizing both air and sea routes to ensure that Israelis stuck abroad can safely return home. Between 100,000 and 150,000 citizens are believed to be waiting for flights or alternative transportation options as international airlines continue to cancel routes to and from Israel.

Regev explained that while her ministry initially requested aircraft and helicopters from the Israeli Air Force, military constraints prevented those resources from being allocated. As a result, some stranded Israelis may be brought back on naval landing crafts.

A specialized emergency coordination body will oversee the operation, working in conjunction with the Defense Ministry, IDF’s Home Front Command, and the National Emergency Authority (RAHEL). This unified effort reflects the urgency and complexity of repatriating such a large number of citizens during a time of national crisis.

Additionally, Israel will take steps to evacuate non-citizens currently in the country, including visiting tourists and participants in programs such as Birthright, stating that “they do not need to be here” under the current security situation.

Regev sought to reassure Israelis waiting abroad: “We will do everything to bring Israelis home,” she promised, while acknowledging that the mission will take time. “It will not happen overnight,” she said. “To those Israelis stuck abroad: you have nothing to worry about you are abroad, enjoy.”

According to N12 reports, rescue flights are expected to begin within 72 hours. The plan currently allows for two flight landings per hour, operating only during daylight hours for safety. Ben-Gurion Airport has been closed since Thursday due to security concerns, leaving tens of thousands of Israelis stranded as airlines halted service to the country.

The large-scale rescue effort comes as Israel continues to face heavy missile and drone attacks from Iran, alongside its own ongoing Operation "Rising Lion," which has seen massive Israeli airstrikes on Iranian nuclear, military, and ballistic missile infrastructure.

As Israel balances its military defense with this unprecedented civilian repatriation effort, Operation Safe Return serves as yet another testament to the nation’s commitment to protecting and caring for its citizens, wherever they may be.

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