Ellman urges UK to put on repatriation flights for Brits in Israel when airspace opens
Ex-MP Louise Ellman had flown to Israel for a Board of Deputies delegation days before the airstrikes
Foreign Office officials are reportedly exploring the possibility of securing charter planes to help evacuate stranded Britons from Israel when airspace is opened again.
UK citizens and dual nationals have been urged to notify the foreign office so that it can assist with efforts if they wish to leave.
In the Commons, Foreign Secretary David Lammy said on Monday the Foreign Office was sending support teams to Jordan and Egypt to help people who were able to cross the borders with Israel by land.
But many of those stranded in Israel are either unwilling or unable to overrule local advice to stay at home to make the journey by land to the Jordanian or Egyptian border so they can return home.
Former Labour MP Louise Ellman is among those still stranded in Israel, having flown there to join a Board of Deputies delegation, which was scheduled to have begun last Sunday, but was cancelled as a result of the airstrikes on Iran.
Ellman, who is staying just outside Jerusalem, confirmed she had spoken with Middle East minister Hamish Falconer, who she said was “very understanding” about her situation, and the need to put on repatriation planes for Brits wanting to return to the UK.
“I had a very helpful conversation with the minister, who told me to register with the foreign office,” said Ellman. “I’m now hoping we can see action in terms of flights being put on, when and if airspace is opened up.”
Ellman, who has spent days and nights in and out of shelters, said that attempting to make an exit via the Jordanian border was difficult for her to do, aged 79.
“I’ve felt edgy, and it’s been unnerving not knowing what has happened,” said the former Liverpool Riverside MP, who added she was pleased with Israel’s successes against the regime in Tehran.
“I would say to the Foreign Office they must consider repatriation flights as soon as airspace is open.”
Jewish News understand officials are looking into this possibility.
Ellman revealed she had arrived in Israel with the intention of visiting the Nova Festival site and Kibbutz Be’eri, but these had to be postponed due to the attacks.
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