Israel Rescues 20 Citizens Trapped in Ethiopian Conflict Zone

The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the successful rescue of approximately 20 Israeli citizens, most of them over 65, who were stranded in Lalibela, northern Ethiopia, due to escalating conflict. The operation, which involved helicopters, concluded yesterday and today after three days of intensive diplomatic efforts.

The group became trapped in the town after fighting intensified between Ethiopian federal forces and local rebels, blocking all exit routes and canceling flights. The Israelis had arrived in Lalibela on September 22 as part of an organized tour and found themselves caught in the crossfire.

One group member, Yuval Partok, described the harrowing experience, recounting hearing gunfire and occasional artillery fire while confined to their hotel. He expressed fears of stray bullets and the uncertainty of their situation, impacting their families and work back home. The group also faced power outages, dwindling supplies of food and cash, and concerns about communication blackouts.

Some group members claimed they were unaware of the deteriorating security situation, noting that the U.S. had issued a travel advisory for the region on September 17, five days before their arrival. They felt they had entered a combat zone unknowingly.

Prior to the official rescue, the group had explored private extraction options but were told such operations required Ministry of Foreign Affairs approval. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Israeli Embassy in Addis Ababa will continue to assist the Israelis until they reach the capital safely.