UPDATE: The first repatriation flight for stranded Hungarian citizens has just departed for Jordan, as the situation in the Middle East escalates. Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó confirmed in a video posted on social media that the aircraft is transporting 87 passengers, including 83 Hungarians, from the war-torn region.
The urgent flight comes as thousands of Hungarians remain stranded in various locations across the Middle East due to ongoing airspace closures. Szijjártó stated, “Passengers have been unable to leave Israel by air, necessitating land transport to Jordan.” The need for immediate action is clear, with a significant number of citizens relying on government assistance to return home safely.
Flight Details: The repatriation flight from Jordan is just the beginning. Another flight is scheduled for Thursday to bring more Hungarians back home. Szijjártó emphasized that efforts to evacuate citizens from Sharm El-Sheikh will commence on Friday, allowing those trapped in Israel to exit towards Jordan or Egypt.
As tensions in the region escalate, Szijjártó is in continuous contact with officials from the United Arab Emirates and Jordan to facilitate further repatriations. “Over 4,000 Hungarians remain in Dubai and Abu Dhabi,” he noted, highlighting the severity of the crisis.
Officials in the UAE have indicated that airspace is gradually reopening, but with strict limitations. Szijjártó reported delays, stating, “Today’s FlyDubai flight to Budapest, initially scheduled for 1 PM, is still grounded and may only leave at 2 AM tomorrow, if all goes well.”
As flights continue to face disruptions, the Hungarian government is working tirelessly to ensure the safety of its citizens. “Our embassies are operating at full capacity, and our consular departments are available to assist,” Szijjártó reassured.
What’s Next: With more flights planned in the coming days, the Hungarian government is set to increase Wizz Air’s operations to ten flights per week from Sharm El-Sheikh. This move aims to expedite the safe return of citizens. Szijjártó remains focused on addressing the needs of those affected, stating, “We will assist everyone in returning home as quickly as possible once airspace becomes accessible.”
As the crisis unfolds, the urgency of repatriating Hungarian citizens has never been more critical. The government’s proactive response underscores the human impact of geopolitical events, as families await news of their loved ones’ safe return.
