UPDATE: As tensions escalate in the Middle East, the first repatriation flight for stranded Hungarian citizens has just departed for Jordan. Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó confirmed via Facebook that the flight is bringing home 87 people, including 83 Hungarians, amidst a chaotic airspace closure in Israel.
This urgent situation arises as many Hungarians, including those stranded in Israel, are unable to leave due to an effective airspace lockdown. “Passengers on this flight are primarily those who had been staying in Israel,” Szijjártó stated. “They will now have to leave by land, as air travel is currently impossible.” The minister also noted that a group of 51 pilgrims was assisted to cross into Jordan by land.
The repatriation efforts will continue, with another flight scheduled for Thursday to bring home more Hungarians from Amman. “On Friday, we will also be evacuating citizens from Sharm El-Sheikh, allowing those who have crossed into Egypt to return home,” Szijjártó added.
In his ongoing communication with foreign officials, Szijjártó has reiterated the urgency of the situation. He is in constant contact with counterparts in the United Arab Emirates and Jordan, where there are still over 4,000 Hungarians reported to be stranded.
“I just spoke with my UAE counterpart, and the situation remains severe,” Szijjártó reported. “The airspace is reopening only slowly due to ongoing attacks.” As of now, a FlyDubai flight to Budapest scheduled for 1 PM has been delayed, illustrating the challenges faced by travelers in the region.
The Hungarian Foreign Ministry assures citizens that embassies are operating fully and that consular departments are available to assist those in need. “We are committed to ensuring the safety and swift return of all Hungarians stranded abroad,” Szijjártó emphasized.
As the crisis unfolds, these repatriation flights are a beacon of hope for many families anxiously awaiting news of their loved ones. The Hungarian government is mobilizing resources to ensure that as many citizens as possible can be brought home safely and quickly.
The repatriation from Jordan and Egypt will optimize future flight schedules, with low-cost carrier Wizz Air increasing flights to ten per week from Sharm El-Sheikh. “This will facilitate a smoother return process once airspace restrictions are lifted,” Szijjártó confirmed.
With the situation evolving rapidly, the Hungarian government urges all citizens stranded in the region to stay informed and reach out for assistance. The urgency of these repatriation efforts cannot be overstated as thousands remain in precarious circumstances.
Stay tuned for more updates as we follow this developing story closely.
