The first Royal Air Force (RAF) evacuation flight carrying British nationals from Israel landed in the UK early Tuesday after what one passenger described as a “long and intense” journey. The aircraft, departing from Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport, carried 63 British nationals and their family members, stopping in Cyprus before touching down in Birmingham.
RAF Evacuation Brings First Britons Home from Israel
Among those onboard was Max Radford, who flew back with his parents. He expressed deep gratitude to RAF and Foreign Office staff on the ground but sharply criticised the overall evacuation effort.
“It’s been a pretty long and intense day,” Radford said after landing. “I’m really thankful to the RAF and Foreign Office staff, but the evacuation plan has been shambolic every step of the way.”
Radford accused the UK government of improvising without a solid plan: “They’re making it up as they go along,” he said, urging the authorities to step up efforts. “There are thousands of people – and 63 on one flight, maybe once a day, is nowhere near enough.”
Passenger Slams UK Government: “They’re Making It Up As They Go”
Since the escalation of conflict between Israel and Iran earlier this month—after Israel’s strike on Iranian nuclear sites and Tehran’s subsequent missile attacks—Israeli airspace has remained largely closed, stranding many foreign nationals. Countries like the US and Portugal launched earlier evacuations, prompting criticism of the UK’s delay.
Around 4,000 British nationals have registered with the Foreign Office in Israel or the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Of those, 1,000 have requested seats on evacuation flights. The Foreign Office has confirmed that future flights will depend on both demand and security conditions. Citizens still in the region are being asked to register their presence.
Radford also criticized the landing location, calling it “ridiculous” that the plane arrived in Birmingham. He suggested the government chose the cheaper option over convenience, saying he paid £1,050 for three seats.
Despite the frustrations, Radford recalled a poignant moment during the flight. “I’ll never forget how passengers started singing the Israeli national anthem and God Save the King,” he said. “It just shows the togetherness and the spirit of the Jewish people of the UK.”
Meanwhile, a ceasefire between Israel and Iran, brokered by US President Donald Trump, was announced early Tuesday. Israel confirmed its agreement but warned of a strong response to any breach. The overnight strikes left four Israelis dead and 22 injured, while Tehran also faced heavy bombardment.
