The UK Foreign Office is scrambling to get tens of thousands of Britons out of the Middle East amid rising tensions, Sky News reveals.
76,000 Brits Registered in the Middle East
Some 76,000 Brits have signed up on the government’s online platform, set up after the recent conflict erupted. Most are currently in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
But here’s the kicker: about three-quarters of them are holidaymakers or stuck in transit, not permanent residents.
Mass Evacuation Effort Underway
The Foreign Office is pulling out all the stops. Thousands have already been moved to hotels in one of the biggest consular operations in years.
“All options are being assessed,” insiders tell Sky News. Routes with every airline are under the microscope. Other government departments are involved as well.
No Injuries Reported, No Talks With Iran Yet
So far, the Foreign Office reports no injuries among British nationals linked to the conflict. Officials have not opened any channels of communication with Iran at this stage.
The coming days will be critical in ensuring safe passage for stranded Britons caught amidst this turmoil.