A RAAF C-17A Globemaster III at Ben Gurion airport in Israel on 15 October 2023 preparing to support assisted departure flights due to the Hamas-Israel conflict. (Image source: Australian Government Defense)
In response to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) has initiated a mission to evacuate Australian citizens and other nationals from Israel.
Since the deployment began on October 13, the RAAF has utilized KC-30A Voyager and C-17A Globemaster III transport planes to carry out a military-led departure operation from Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport to Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE).
This critical mission aims to ensure the safety of Australians and other foreign nationals caught in the midst of the conflict.
A Swift Response to an Evolving Conflict
Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles emphasized the importance of the government’s actions to safeguard Australian nationals. He stated,
“The activation of two Defence aircraft provides critical options for Australia as the conflict in Israel continues to evolve,” said Marles in a press release statement.
These military-assisted departure flights are part of a broader government-supported private charter operation. The deployment of RAAF aircraft as part of “Operation Beech” began last Friday, and it has proven to be a vital lifeline for those wishing to leave Israel amidst the conflict.
Australian citizens and visa holders who are currently in Israel have been encouraged to register with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) via their crisis portal to facilitate their departure. This registration process helps the government keep track of individuals in need of assistance.
A Growing Exodus: Over 1,200 Citizens Evacuated
Foreign Affairs Minister Senator Penny Wong reported that over 1,200 Australian citizens had registered on the crisis portal, many of whom have already left Israel and Palestine.
In response to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) has initiated a mission to evacuate Australian citizens and other nationals from Israel.
Since the deployment began on October 13, the RAAF has utilized KC-30A Voyager and C-17A Globemaster III transport planes to carry out a military-led departure operation from Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport to Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE).
This critical mission aims to ensure the safety of Australians and other foreign nationals caught in the midst of the conflict.
A Swift Response to an Evolving Conflict
Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles emphasized the importance of the government’s actions to safeguard Australian nationals. He stated,
“The activation of two Defence aircraft provides critical options for Australia as the conflict in Israel continues to evolve,” said Marles in a press release statement.
These military-assisted departure flights are part of a broader government-supported private charter operation. The deployment of RAAF aircraft as part of “Operation Beech” began last Friday, and it has proven to be a vital lifeline for those wishing to leave Israel amidst the conflict.
Australian citizens and visa holders who are currently in Israel have been encouraged to register with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) via their crisis portal to facilitate their departure. This registration process helps the government keep track of individuals in need of assistance.
A Growing Exodus: Over 1,200 Citizens Evacuated
Foreign Affairs Minister Senator Penny Wong reported that over 1,200 Australian citizens had registered on the crisis portal, many of whom have already left Israel and Palestine.
The initial departure efforts included more than 400 Australians whom the Australian government assisted on four separate flights.
“We continue to consider options to assist Australians who want to leave Israel or the Occupied Palestinian Territories,” Senator Wong stated, emphasizing the government’s commitment to helping its citizens in this time of crisis.
She further encouraged Australians to take the earliest available departure option, urging them not to wait for a different opportunity, given the rapidly changing situation.
Planning for the Future
The Australian Department of Defence has revealed that the government is evaluating alternatives to pursue military-assisted departure flights in similar scenarios that may arise in the future. This proactive approach underscores the government’s dedication to the safety and well-being of its citizens in times of crisis.
As the situation continues to evolve, the government is considering whether further assisted-departure flights will be required. The Israeli-Hamas conflict remains a dynamic and challenging situation, making it crucial for the government to remain flexible and responsive to the needs of its citizens in the affected areas.
How to Register for Assistance
Australians in the affected regions who wish to leave or require assistance with their departure are strongly encouraged to register via DFAT’s Crisis Portal. Additionally, they can contact the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre at +61 2 6261 3305 (for overseas calls) or 1300 555 135 (for calls within Australia).
DFAT will continue to provide updates and support to registered Australians, ensuring that they are well-informed and receive the assistance they need during this challenging time.
A Unified Effort to Ensure Safety
The deployment of RAAF aircraft for military-led evacuation flights is a clear example of the Australian government’s commitment to the safety and well-being of its citizens and other foreign nationals impacted by the Israel-Hamas conflict. It also demonstrates the government’s ability to swiftly respond to evolving crises and provide critical options for those in need.
Operation Beech đź“Ť Supported by #AusAirForce and #AusArmy crew, the ADF continues to support @dfat-led assisted-departure flights from Tel Aviv with another 148 passengers departing Israel onboard a KC-30A aircraft.#YourADF is proud to help. pic.twitter.com/WmIi2sMcB0
As the conflict unfolds, the government remains vigilant and ready to adapt its response to ensure the safety of its citizens. The ongoing cooperation between the RAAF, DFAT, and other government agencies underscores the strength and unity of the Australian government in times of adversity.
While the situation in the Middle East remains complex and fluid, the Australian government’s commitment to supporting its citizens is unwavering. The evacuation mission serves as a testament to the nation’s dedication to the safety and well-being of its people, wherever they may be in the world.
As of Thursday, October 19, a total of 295 individuals, including Australians and other approved foreign nationals, have been successfully evacuated from Tel Aviv to Dubai via these military-led departure flights.
Rapid Evacuations Amidst Unfolding Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
As hundreds of Australians are evacuated from Israel, another harrowing humanitarian catastrophe unfolds in Gaza, and Americans are also racing against time to leave the region. These evacuations are taking place amidst growing concerns of a possible Israeli ground invasion and the escalating conflict between Israel and Hamas.
At the bustling port, passengers found themselves standing on a ramp typically reserved for tourists boarding cruise ships to destinations like Greece, Cyprus, Turkey, and beyond. The same ramp has often been used by passengers eager to explore Haifa, Israel’s third-largest city, celebrated as a model for peaceful coexistence among Muslims, Christians, and Jews.
For many Americans and their families, the journey to the port began at the crack of dawn as they traveled from Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, determined to be there by 8 AM, the time indicated by the embassy for boarding. Around the ramp, families gathered with their suitcases, allowing their children to catch up on interrupted sleep.
The scene at the port exemplifies the urgency and determination of people from various nations to seek safety and refuge amidst a complex and escalating crisis.
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As evacuations continue, the international community watches with concern, hoping for a swift resolution to the conflict and an end to the suffering of innocent civilians caught in the crossfire.
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