The first group of British nationals evacuated from Israel has returned to the UK, landing early Tuesday morning at Birmingham Airport following what passengers described as a “long and intense” journey. The RAF-organised evacuation flight departed Ben Gurion Airport on Monday afternoon, carrying 63 British citizens and their family members.
Evacuees Criticise UK Government’s Israel Exit Plan
Among the evacuees was Max Radford, who accompanied his elderly parents on the flight. While he expressed gratitude to RAF and Foreign Office personnel on the ground, he criticised the overall evacuation plan as “shambolic.” Radford said the UK government appeared to be “making it up as they go along,” noting the limited capacity of just one flight per day amid an urgent need to evacuate thousands. “There are thousands of people – and 63 on one flight is nowhere near enough,” he said.
The return comes after Israel reopened its airspace on Monday, following a 10-day closure triggered by escalating conflict with Iran. The tensions began when Israel launched strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, prompting retaliatory missile attacks from Tehran. The UK government confirmed that around 4,000 nationals had registered their presence in Israel or the Occupied Palestinian Territories, and roughly 1,000 of them had requested evacuation.
Passengers Describe Journey from Israel and Arrival Support
Passengers also criticised logistical aspects of the evacuation. Radford, who paid £1,050 for three tickets, called the decision to land in Birmingham “ridiculous,” suggesting cost-cutting may have influenced the choice over a more central location like London. Nonetheless, he shared a poignant moment from the flight, recalling how passengers united in song, singing both the Israeli national anthem and “God Save the King.”
On arrival, evacuees were welcomed by Rabbi Yehuda Pink of Solihull Synagogue, alongside Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council staff. A reception hub was set up with medical staff, social workers, and food provisions to assist passengers with onward travel.
More Flights to Be Scheduled Based on Demand
Another evacuee, Richard Kafton from North London, said his trip to Jerusalem for the Jewish festival of Shavuot became increasingly stressful. The conflict escalated during their stay. Their return flight was cancelled, and he and his wife had to take shelter from air raids almost every day. He criticised the Foreign Office for its slow initial response and confusing communication. However, he praised the RAF and described the repatriation journey via Cyprus and Athens as well-coordinated and efficient.
A Foreign Office spokesperson said more flights are being arranged based on demand and the volatile security situation. “Our priority remains the safety of British nationals,” the statement read.
Ceasefire Declared After Heavy Israel-Iran Strikes
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire between Israel and Iran was “now in effect,” though violations were reported shortly after. Four were killed and 22 injured in Israeli territory, while Iran endured heavy strikes with casualties still unknown.
