Dozens of Israelis Trapped in Ethiopia Amidst Escalating Conflict

Approximately 40 Israeli tourists are currently stranded in two locations in northern Ethiopia due to intensifying clashes between government forces and rebels in the Tigray region. One group of about 20 Israelis, many over 65, has been stuck in the city of Lalibela for five days, with all exits blocked and air traffic suspended. "We are in a hotel in the city center, and all exits are blocked. It is impossible to leave by car," Yuval Partuk, a tourist in the group, told N12 on Monday morning. He reported hearing gunfire and artillery fire every few hours and stated that their planned return flight to Israel was impossible.

The group arrived in Ethiopia in mid-September for a tour and reached Lalibela on September 22, only to find themselves in a conflict zone. "We landed and didn't understand where the explosions around us were coming from," Partuk recounted. "We are people over 65. They tell us to wait, but time is passing, and people's medications are running out." Roads out of the city are deemed unsafe due to the fighting, and the nearby airport is not operational. Information is scarce, and the tourists are concerned about dwindling supplies and the possibility of prolonged confinement.

In an appeal to Israel's Foreign Ministry, the stranded Israelis warned of shortages in food, fuel, and cash, as well as the potential for a complete communication blackout. They noted that flights are canceled indefinitely and that some elderly tourists may require medical attention if they cannot leave soon. The tourists expressed frustration, stating they were unaware of the risks and only learned of a U.S. security warning issued on September 17 after they were already trapped. They also mentioned approaching private Israeli evacuation companies, which reportedly stated that evacuations cannot be organized without Foreign Ministry approval.

A second group of about 20 Israelis is reportedly stranded in Mekelle, also in a conflict zone, with additional individual travelers joining them. The Israeli Foreign Ministry stated that it is making intensive efforts, monitoring the situation closely, and maintaining contact with the groups and relevant parties. "We are constantly examining departure options from the region in coordination with local representatives and in accordance with developments and security conditions on the ground," the ministry said, emphasizing its commitment to providing all possible assistance with a priority on life, health, and safety.