Hungary has launched its first repatriation flight to bring home citizens stranded in the Middle East due to the ongoing conflict, according to Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó. The flight departed for Jordan on Wednesday, carrying 87 people, including 83 Hungarians, two Romanians, one Slovak, and a Colombian citizen, Szijjártó said in a video posted on Facebook.

Repatriation Efforts Begin Amid Airspace Closure

Szijjártó explained that the passengers had been staying in Israel, which has imposed a full airspace closure. This has left Israeli citizens and foreigners stranded, as the only option for departure is by land. He stated that Hungary assisted 51 pilgrims in leaving Israel by land for Jordan, and the current flight is bringing home approximately thirty people from Jordan.

The repatriation flight is set to depart again on Thursday to bring Hungarians back from Amman, Jordan. Szijjártó said that on Friday, efforts will focus on Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, as those stranded in Israel can now leave the country by land towards Jordan or Egypt.

Future Flights and Regional Cooperation

Szijjártó emphasized that Hungarians stranded in the region can be brought home this week. He added that Wizz Air will increase its flights from Sharm El-Sheikh to ten per week, allowing stranded citizens to return home on scheduled flights.

The minister is in constant contact with regional counterparts to assist as many Hungarians as possible. He noted that airspace closures have made it impossible for Hungarians to return home in several places for the time being. However, embassies and consular departments remain fully operational to support those in need.

Szijjártó held phone talks with his counterparts in the United Arab Emirates and Jordan late on Tuesday to discuss the escalating crisis in the Middle East and the repatriation of Hungarians stranded in the region. These discussions highlight Hungary’s commitment to ensuring the safe return of its citizens amid the ongoing conflict.

Impact on Travel and Diplomatic Relations

The conflict in Israel and the surrounding region has disrupted air travel, leaving many citizens and tourists stranded. Hungary’s repatriation efforts are a direct response to the crisis, aiming to provide a safe and organized return for those affected.

According to the foreign minister, Hungary’s embassies and consulates are working around the clock to assist citizens. The government has also been in close coordination with regional partners to facilitate the movement of stranded individuals through land routes.

These efforts are part of a broader diplomatic response to the crisis. Hungary has been actively engaging with neighboring countries to find solutions for the growing number of citizens and foreign nationals stranded in the area.

The repatriation flights represent a significant step in addressing the challenges posed by the airspace closures. As the situation evolves, Hungary’s foreign ministry remains committed to providing support and ensuring the safe return of its citizens.

Szijjártó reiterated that the government is doing everything possible to assist Hungarians abroad. He urged those in need to reach out to Hungarian embassies and consulates for assistance and updates on repatriation efforts.