Ashdod: A rescue ship carrying 2,000 Israeli citizens stranded abroad has arrived at Ashdod Port, marking a key milestone in Israel’s emergency evacuation efforts as the country’s airspace remains closed amid the ongoing military conflict with Iran.
The Crown Iris cruise liner departed from Limassol, Cyprus, and docked near Tel Aviv early Friday morning. It is the first major maritime repatriation operation since the war erupted seven days ago, temporarily grounding flights and stranding thousands of Israelis overseas.
The operation was led by Israeli Transport Minister Miri Regev, who personally greeted returnees at the port. “We continue to act vigorously, using all tools and means at our disposal, to bring Israeli citizens home safely,” Regev said.
Free bus services were provided for passengers upon arrival, facilitating safe transit from the port to their homes or designated shelters.
Moshe Ben Zaken, Director General of the Ministry of Transport, confirmed the maritime corridor remains open and additional sea evacuations are already being planned. “This is the first, but it won’t be the last. More passengers are expected to return via this method in the coming days,” he said.
With Israeli airports largely shut due to security threats from Iranian missiles and drones, maritime repatriation has become the government’s most viable method for evacuating citizens and maintaining civilian mobility during the crisis.
