Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly announced that military aircraft are planned to evacuate Canadian citizens currently abroad from Israel. The announcement was communicated through the Foreign Ministry’s official social media channels, confirming that the government intends to act swiftly to ensure the safety of Canadians in the region.
According to the minister, these evacuations should take place in the near future. The plan is inclusive: not only Canadian citizens but also family members who hold other citizenships will be eligible to board Canadian Armed Forces flights. The Canadian authorities emphasize that assistance will be provided to individuals who are unable to reach Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport on their own, ensuring they have a safe and manageable exit route from the area.
In related regional developments, it has been noted that the Russian Federation has expressed a willingness to assist in evacuating Belarusian citizens from the Gaza Strip. This information has been reported by various outlets and confirms a broader international effort to reposition nationals amid the escalating tensions in the region.
Additionally, the Russian Ambassador to Tel Aviv, Anatoly Viktorov, indicated that hundreds of Russians have requested evacuation from Israel. He mentioned that two Russian airlines have been operating flights on a near-regular basis from Tel Aviv to the cities of Sochi and Mineralnye Vody, providing a practical corridor for those seeking to leave the country.
Observers in the region have suggested that the timing of any potential escalation in conflict remains uncertain. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely and coordinates with national authorities to support safe departures where possible. The evolving dynamics in the area have prompted many governments to outline contingency plans to assist their citizens who find themselves in harm’s way, including access to transportation and consular support while on the ground and during transit. These measures are part of a broader commitment to protect civilians and ensure the orderly management of international travel during periods of heightened risk.
Officials emphasize that the evacuation process will prioritize safety, transparency, and orderly procedures. Citizens planning to use these flights should remain attentive to official advisories and ensure they are prepared with necessary travel documents and any required forms for entry or re-entry into Canada. The government also reiterates its readiness to coordinate with international partners to facilitate the return of residents who hold multiple citizenships, recognizing the diverse needs of Canadian families abroad.
As this situation develops, the government will provide updates through official channels. The primary goal remains clear: to bring Canadians home as quickly and securely as possible while offering continuous support to those who require assistance in reaching departure points. This effort reflects Canada’s longstanding policy of prioritizing the safety of its citizens in crisis zones, backed by a robust network of consular services and emergency response resources. Attribution: Canadian Ministry of Foreign Affairs