Israel Prepares to Evacuate Citizens From Ethiopia Amid Renewed Tigray Conflict

Renewed fighting in Ethiopia's Tigray region is threatening to delay the immigration of dozens of Ethiopian Jews whose applications were approved this past summer. These individuals, who were vetted by a special delegation from the Population and Immigration Authority, are currently facing difficulties reaching the airport in Addis Ababa. Airports in Gondar are closed, and roads are blocked by rebels, hindering their travel.

In parallel, Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that it is preparing to evacuate dozens of Israeli citizens currently in the affected areas. The ministry stated it is undertaking "feverish efforts" and closely monitoring the situation of Israelis in regions experiencing the escalation. "We are continuously examining exit options from the area in cooperation with local elements and according to developments and security conditions on the ground," a statement read. The ministry emphasized its commitment to assisting Israelis in the region while prioritizing their safety and security.

The immigration delegation had reviewed 146 applications from families seeking to immigrate under the Law of Return, despite Israel's 2013 declaration that no more individuals eligible under this law remained in Ethiopia. The Ministry of Aliyah and Integration and the Jewish Agency declined to comment on the matter.