**British Nationals in Israel Urged to Prepare for Emergency Repatriation Flights**
British citizens currently residing in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories have been strongly advised by the UK Government to register their presence as plans for emergency evacuation flights gather pace. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer issued the call following significant escalations in the region, marked by overnight strikes from the United States on Iranian nuclear facilities and a subsequent missile attack by Tehran targeting Israel. The increase in hostilities has left thousands of foreign nationals, including Britons, seeking urgent assistance to leave the area.
In a televised interview, Sir Keir Starmer implored, “I urge all citizens to make contact with the Foreign Office so that we can facilitate whatever support is needed.” He confirmed that the government is making arrangements for chartered flights, with departures to commence “as soon as we can.” The Prime Minister reiterated that all British nationals in the affected region should ensure they’re registered with the authorities to enable swift communication and aid.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) also reinforced its message, underlining the importance of registration for those who wish to be considered for evacuation. According to official statements, the first rescue flight is expected to depart in the early part of next week, with additional flights contingent on how the situation develops and the level of demand that arises. The FCDO clarified, “further flights will be considered depending on demand and the latest security situation.”
Although estimates from the Israeli authorities suggest there are currently around 22,000 tourists awaiting evacuation opportunities, the number of British nationals among them has not been specified. The FCDO has assured registered Britons that they will be directly contacted with details and links to access the booking system for flights. Notably, while rescue flights are being organised, passengers will be required to pay for their seats upon registration, a practice in keeping with previous evacuations from crisis zones. Priority will be given to those in greatest need.
Eligibility for these repatriation flights includes British citizens and their non-British immediate family members. However, non-British relatives must possess valid long-term visas or permission to remain in the UK, as well as appropriate travel documents. The FCDO emphasised that all conditions must be met before individuals can board the evacuation flights.
Despite the UK’s efforts to arrange flights, challenges remain — most notably, the closures of Israeli airspace have so far prevented planes from departing. Business Secretary Jonathon Reynolds said on Sunday that “active conversations” were ongoing regarding chartering aircraft, adding, “Our intention would be to do that as soon as possible… hours, not days.” Meanwhile, Shadow Foreign Secretary Dame Priti Patel warned that the government “must not be behind the curve” as other countries, such as the United States, have already moved to evacuate their citizens.
The Irish government confirmed that 15 of its citizens have already left Israel with Austrian assistance and are en route to Ireland. This highlights the urgency with which neighbouring governments are acting to protect their nationals, amid concerns that the security situation could rapidly deteriorate.
British officials have cautioned citizens not to attempt to reach the airport independently. “This is a perilous and volatile moment for the Middle East. The safety of British nationals in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories continues to be our utmost priority – that’s why the UK Government is preparing flights to help those wanting to leave,” a Foreign Office spokesperson stated. Officials on the ground are reportedly working closely with Israeli authorities to ensure that British nationals receive up-to-date support and information.
Despite the turmoil within Israel, international flights remain operational from Egypt and Jordan to the UK, and land border crossings to these countries are open, offering alternative routes for those seeking an exit. However, the FCDO warned that the situation is highly unstable, and the government’s ability to operate flights could be affected at very short notice.
For those wishing to inform the government of their situation or intentions, the official registration portal is available online, and authorities strongly encourage prompt action. As the situation in the Middle East remains in flux, timely updates from the FCDO can be found on their communication channels, with the safety of British nationals remaining a top government priority.