Default Heading H1
UK Begins Evacuation Flights Amid Middle East Crisis
Foreign Secretary David Lammy has announced that 63 British nationals and their dependants have been successfully evacuated from Israel to Cyprus via a Royal Air Force (RAF) flight, amid rising tensions between Israel and Iran.
Speaking to MPs in the House of Commons on Monday afternoon, Mr Lammy said those evacuated will be flown home “this evening,” with more evacuation flights expected to follow in the coming days.
This is a perilous moment in the Middle East. Our first priority is the safety of British nationals,” Lammy said.
The Foreign Office launched a booking portal yesterday for UK citizens in Israel who wish to leave the region. Officials have confirmed that those most at risk will be prioritised for evacuation.
Chief Rabbi Among Those on RAF Evacuation Flight
UK News in Pictures understands that Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis was among those on board the flight, having been in Israel at the time. The Chief Rabbi is expected to return safely to the UK by tonight.
Qatar Advisory: UK Citizens Told to Shelter
Lammy also addressed growing safety concerns in Qatar, following a US security alert for American nationals in the country.
“Out of an abundance of caution, we now recommend British nationals in Qatar shelter in place until further notice,” Lammy told MPs.
UK Government Reiterates Stance on Iran
While stressing that the UK was not involved in recent US or Israeli strikes, Lammy reinforced Britain’s position on Iran’s nuclear activities:
“Iran must never be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon. We’ve long had concerns about the country’s nuclear programme.”
Lammy added that Iran is enriching uranium to 60% purity, a level the UK believes has “no civilian justification.”
One British National Injured in Israel
The Foreign Secretary also confirmed that one British citizen was injured in Israel during recent strikes. No further details have been released about their identity or condition.
