The UK government has announced plans to provide charter flights for British nationals wishing to leave Israel, once airspace from Tel Aviv reopens. Amid ongoing hostilities with Iran, Whitehall officials are working to secure viable exit routes for British citizens and dual nationals. Priority will be given to holidaymakers, business travellers, and those temporarily residing in the country, though the Foreign Office stressed that flights would be arranged according to demand and safety considerations.
++ Study links common driving behaviour to narcissism
Foreign Secretary David Lammy confirmed the plans, urging those affected to register their presence for further guidance. Simultaneously, the UK has temporarily withdrawn diplomatic staff from Iran, citing security concerns following continued Israeli airstrikes. “Our embassy continues to operate remotely,” the Foreign Office stated, while reiterating that British nationals in Israel should make decisions based on local advice and personal circumstances.
Thousands of individuals in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories have already registered with the Foreign Office. Although a general evacuation has not been advised, a small number of individuals have formally requested consular assistance. A spokesperson for No 10 emphasised the importance of registration to ensure those affected can receive timely updates regarding evacuation flights.
++ Keir Starmer’s series of U-Turns raise questions about labour’s political direction
As violence continues, civilians across Israel have been forced into bomb shelters. The conflict has resulted in at least 24 deaths and hundreds of injuries within Israel, while an estimated 657 people – including over 260 civilians – have been killed in Iran, according to a US-based human rights group. Land routes remain open and have been used by some British nationals, although the UK’s response has drawn criticism after it emerged that families of British officials were evacuated while other citizens were instructed only to follow local guidance.
