Canadian officials announced on Wednesday that they will be deploying two military aircraft to assist in the evacuation of Canadians in Israel who wish to leave the country. The operation is set to commence as early as Friday, with the plan to conduct three daily flights departing from Tel Aviv and heading towards Athens. In a show of support, Air Canada has pledged to provide the necessary aircraft and crew to facilitate the transport of these passengers back to Canada.
According to Canadian officials, there are currently more than 4,200 registered Canadian citizens in Israel, with an additional 470 in Gaza and the West Bank. Out of these individuals, approximately 1,000 Canadians have reached out for assistance. Tragically, three Canadians have already lost their lives in the recent unexpected attack carried out by Hamas in Israel. While two deaths have been confirmed, one individual is still presumed to be deceased. Furthermore, there are three Canadians reported as missing. The Canadian officials have refrained from speculating on whether these individuals are being held hostage.
This move to evacuate Canadian citizens comes in response to the escalating conflict between Israel and Hamas, which has left both Israelis and Palestinians in a dire situation. Canadian authorities are taking immediate action to ensure the safety and well-being of their citizens amidst the volatile conditions on the ground.
The deployment of military aircraft demonstrates Canada’s commitment to supporting its citizens abroad during times of crisis. The government is working tirelessly to coordinate this evacuation effort with efficiency and caution. The Canadian officials continue to urge all Canadians in the region to register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service to receive the latest updates on the evacuation operation and to ensure their safety is prioritized.
As tensions persist in the region, international efforts are underway to de-escalate the situation and bring about a lasting ceasefire. Canada, along with other countries, is actively engaging in diplomatic initiatives to promote peace and stability in the Middle East.