Fact Check: UK to charter flights for nationals from Israel amid ongoing conflict
What We Know
The UK government has confirmed that it is facilitating flights to help British nationals leave Israel due to the ongoing conflict in the region. Foreign Secretary James Cleverly announced that the first flight was expected to depart from Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv on October 12, 2023, with further flights planned depending on the security situation (UK government to arrange flights to get British nationals out of Israel). The UK has also deployed a Rapid Deployment Team to assist British citizens on the ground (UK government to arrange flights to get British nationals out of Israel).
Additionally, David Lammy, another UK government official, stated that the UK is working with Israeli authorities to arrange charter flights for British nationals once Israeli airspace reopens (UK preparing to charter flights from Israel, Lammy says). The flights will be available to British passport holders, and those wishing to return have been advised to register their presence in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories (UK preparing to charter flights from Israel, Lammy says).
Analysis
The claim that the UK will charter flights for nationals from Israel is supported by multiple credible sources. The UK government’s official announcement indicates a clear plan to facilitate the evacuation of British citizens, prioritizing vulnerable individuals (UK government to arrange flights to get British nationals out of Israel). This aligns with Lammy's statements regarding coordination with Israeli authorities to arrange flights once airspace is reopened (UK preparing to charter flights from Israel, Lammy says).
The reliability of these sources is high, as they include official government announcements and reputable news outlets like the BBC and Sky News, which have a history of accurate reporting on international affairs. The urgency of the situation, stemming from the recent escalation of conflict, adds to the credibility of the government's response, as it reflects a proactive approach to ensuring the safety of its nationals.
However, it is important to note that the situation is fluid, and the availability of flights is contingent on security conditions, which could change rapidly. The UK government has emphasized that British nationals should not proceed to the airport unless contacted directly, indicating a controlled and cautious approach to the evacuation process (UK government to arrange flights to get British nationals out of Israel).
Conclusion
The claim that the UK is chartering flights for nationals from Israel amid the ongoing conflict is True. The UK government has made official announcements regarding the facilitation of flights for British citizens, and there are plans in place to ensure their safe return. The evidence from reliable sources confirms that the government is actively working to assist its nationals during this crisis.
Sources
- UK government to arrange flights to get British nationals out of Israel
- UK working with Israel to arrange charter flights out of Tel Aviv, Lammy says
- UK preparing to charter flights from Israel, Lammy says
- UK preparing charter flights out of Israel for British nationals
- UK scrambles to charter flights out of Israel as Brits complain about response from government
