The Australian government is planning a third repatriation flight from Israel, anticipating a high demand to flee the conflict, which is expected to have lasting ramifications.
The home affairs minister, Clare O’Neil, emphasized that the safety and security of Australians is the top priority.
Australia Strongly Condemns Violence in Israel
The decision to use commercial operators like Qantas for the flights, as opposed to military transportation used by some other nations, was based on availability and arranging flights as quickly as possible, according to the foreign minister, Penny Wong.
The first two flights from Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport to London are set to depart on Friday and Sunday. Wong mentioned that the government is seeking to arrange a further flight, likely early next week, urging Australians to register with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade if they wish to access assisted departure.
O’Neil condemned the ongoing violence and terrorism in Israel, expressing concerns about the long-term ramifications of the conflict. She highlighted the killing of innocent individuals and the suffering on both sides of the conflict. Hamas, the perpetrators of the violence, is listed as a terrorist organization by the Australian government.
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Adaptability in Flight Operations
O’Neil noted that there are over 45,000 Australians who visit Israel every year and that there are about 10,000 dual citizens living in Israel when asked how many Australians are expected to want assistance departing Israel.
The high numbers imply that there may be a substantial demand for repatriation flights. Wong gave an explanation of why Qantas was chosen for repatriation flights, stressing the requirement for adaptable operations depending on shifting security circumstances.
Qantas offered the Tel Aviv to London flight free of charge to passengers, with the government underwriting the flights. Despite the conflict, Australia continues to support Israel’s right to defend itself, denouncing antisemitic rallies and urging restraint in protecting civilian lives.
The Australian Council for International Development (Acfid) called on political parties to prioritize peace and safety for civilians and to uphold international humanitarian law, condemning Hamas for its attacks and emphasizing the need to protect civilians in the conflict.
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