The UK Foreign Office has announced plans to assist vulnerable British nationals in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs) by offering flights to help them return to the UK.
These flights are set to take place early next week, and the British government has launched a flight registration form for nationals to express interest. The decision to offer further flights will depend on demand and the latest security updates in the region.
Registration Process for British Nationals
British nationals currently in Israel or the OPTs who are interested in departing are encouraged to register their details through the UK government’s registration form. Those who have already registered through the “Register Your Presence” portal will automatically be contacted and provided with a booking link.
It’s important for all British nationals, especially those who haven’t registered yet, to do so now to receive the necessary details for the flight.
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has emphasized that individuals with the greatest need will be prioritized for flight seats.
In addition to British nationals, non-British immediate family members accompanying them will also be eligible for the flight, provided they meet specific requirements.
Eligibility for the Flights
To be eligible for a seat on the flight, all passengers must have a valid travel document. Non-British immediate family members must have valid visas or permissions to enter or stay in the UK, with a duration of over six months.
The FCDO will contact all eligible individuals directly to confirm their booking for the flight. It’s important to note that British nationals should not proceed to the airport unless they have been specifically contacted about their seat allocation.
Payment Details and Refund Process
The UK government has stated that passengers who are eligible to board the flight will be required to pay for their seat. Payment will be taken during the registration process.
However, if a person is not allocated a seat, their payment will be refunded, in line with the procedure followed for previous charter flights from the region.
Volatility of the Situation
While commercial flights continue to operate from nearby countries such as Egypt and Jordan, and land border crossings to these countries remain open, the situation in Israel and the OPTs is unpredictable.
The UK government has acknowledged that the ability to run flights may change at short notice due to the volatile situation.
An FCDO spokesperson expressed concern about the safety of British nationals in the region, stating that the situation in the Middle East remains perilous and unstable.
They assured that the government is working closely with Israeli authorities to ensure the safety and security of its citizens and provide necessary support.
The UK government’s initiative to provide flights for vulnerable British nationals in Israel and the OPTs is a vital effort to ensure their safe return amidst the current instability.
By registering their interest, British nationals and their immediate families can secure their place on the upcoming flight, helping to guarantee a safer exit from a region facing significant volatility.
